Plans to transform an historic Preston site are being recommended for approval by city planners despite local objections.
Preston Council’s planning committee is to consider plans for Harris Knowledge Park, off Garstang Road, Fulwood, on November 4.
Applicants Harris Park Ltd, headed by multi-millionaire property mogul Yousuf Bhailok, wants to erect three houses, and carry out extensions to five existing properties.
The firm is also proposing structural landscaping works.
The committee has been asked to consider the application on the basis that it has a significant impact on the conservation area and its setting.
The application site represents the whole of the Harris Children’s Home Conservation Area, a collection of listed buildings and a Grade II listed Historic Park and Garden.
The first element of the plan is the erection of substantial two storey extensions to the rear elevations of the four detached Grade II listed villas which frame the north side of the village green that is central to the layout of the former Orphanage.
The second element of the proposal is the development of the existing open field which would be developed with three large “modernist” houses. As part of the development, a new section of road is set to be constructed to access the three new homes.
The Victorian Society has told the council it “strongly objects” to the plan
A total of 42 letters of objection have been received.
In addition to these letters, a petition against the development has been received signed by 40 residents at nearby Orchard Court.
A report to the committee said: “The proposed development would deliver a sustainable development which would preserve, conserve and, in part, enhance the heritage designations of an important historic site.
“Objections have been considered but the proposed modern and contemporary approach to the design of the built development and landscaping works is an appropriate contrast to the existing Victorian development.”
The report recommends approval with conditions.