Public inquiry into Tithebarn development begins today

Today sees the start of the public inquiry into the Preston Tithebarn development.

This independent public inquiry, which is being held at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, will decide on whether planning permission should be granted for this retail led mixed use re-development of the eastern part of Preston City Centre.

Preston City Council, Lancashire County Council and developers Lend Lease are submitting a strong case in support of Preston Tithebarn as Council Leader, Councillor Ken Hudson explained:

“Tithebarn is a much needed development for Preston and Central Lancashire. Tithebarn has wide ranging support from Lancashire County Council, the North West Development Agency and others and we look forward to making our case at the inquiry. We hope the inquiry will rule in favour of Tithebarn so that Preston can fulfill its undoubted potential.”

The Tithebarn development is a retail led regeneration of part of Preston City Centre. It includes a new bus station, revitalised Preston Markets, a new cinema, cafes, bars as well as new offices and homes. Tithebarn also includes a new John Lewis and Marks and Spencer anchor stores, as well as other improvements to shopping in the city.

In July 2009, Preston City Council resolved that it was minded to grant planning permission for the Tithebarn development.

However, the planning application was “called in” by the Government and a public inquiry was ordered.

The public inquiry is now taking place and is expected to last around six to seven weeks. The inquiry is chaired by two independent planning inspectors who after hearing all the evidence, will make a recommendation to the Government. The City Council is expecting to learn the outcome of the public inquiry around the end of 2010, when a final decision on the scheme will then be made by Government.

Tags: Lancashire County Council, Marks And Spencer, Preston City Council, Preston Shopping, Tithebarn