Concerns Raised Over New Industrial Site Development in Formby

Formby Parish Council is calling on residents to voice their opinions following a meeting with developers proposing a significant new industrial development to the north of the Stephenson Way employment area. The meeting revealed plans for a range of facilities, including food outlets, a health center, and traffic infrastructure changes. The Parish Council has expressed serious concerns about the potential impact on the community and local businesses.

What’s Being Proposed?

The proposed site, located adjacent to the Formby Bypass, includes several features that have sparked both interest and alarm:

• Food Outlets and Coffee Shop: Plans include two food outlets and a drive-in coffee shop, all facing the bypass.

• NHS Unit: A health facility has been proposed, aiming to provide additional services for the community.

• Traffic and Transport Changes: Developers are proposing a new traffic-light-controlled pedestrian crossing on the bypass to provide site access. They are also exploring the possibility of introducing a bus service, although no current routes run along the bypass.

• Flood Mitigation Measures: The plans include a compensatory flood scheme to address potential environmental concerns, with a planting scheme to offset hedgerow loss.

The site has been designated for employment use in Sefton Council’s local plan, and the developers claim to have the council’s backing in principle. However, the Parish Council remains skeptical about the overall feasibility and the effects on Formby.

Council’s Reaction

During the meeting, Formby Parish Council expressed strong opposition to several aspects of the proposal. One of the main concerns is the potential damage to the local economy, particularly the village shops, which could struggle to compete with new food outlets and a drive-in coffee shop located so close to the bypass.

Further frustration arose when the developers presented a site plan that differed significantly from what had been shared previously. The updated version included additional features, such as drive-through options, which were not part of earlier discussions.

The Parish Council also raised concerns about the practicality of the proposed traffic light system and bus route. With no current bus stops in the area—other than one near Tesco on Altcar Road—introducing a viable transport network could prove challenging.

Background and Timeline

The development proposal dates back to October 2023, when the Parish Council first met with developers via Teams to discuss initial plans. At that time, the scheme included:

• Employment units of various sizes to attract businesses to the area.

• Enabling developments, such as the proposed supermarket and sports facility, alongside infrastructure improvements.

• A flood compensation area to mitigate environmental risks.

The developers indicated that these plans were under review by Sefton Council and the Environment Agency, with a full planning application expected by early 2024. Since then, the proposals have evolved, and the developers are now preparing for a public consultation in December 2024 to gather feedback from Formby residents.

What’s at Stake?

If approved, this development could bring significant changes to Formby, both positive and negative. While new employment opportunities and services like an NHS unit could benefit residents, the potential impact on local businesses and the character of the village remains a pressing concern.

The Parish Council is particularly worried about the effects on traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Introducing a new traffic light system on the bypass, one of Formby’s busiest roads, could lead to increased congestion and pose challenges for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Additionally, the viability of a bus service in an area with no existing routes is unclear. Without robust public transport options, accessibility to the site could become an issue, limiting its usefulness to the wider community.

Next Steps: Upcoming Meeting and Public Consultation

In December, the developers will hold a public consultation to gather feedback from the community. This will be a crucial opportunity for residents to share their views and influence the development’s future.

A Call to Action for Formby Residents

Formby Parish Council is urging residents to stay informed and actively participate in the consultation process. The outcome of this development could have far-reaching implications for the town’s economy, environment, and way of life.

“It’s essential that the community makes its voice heard,” a Council spokesperson said. “We understand the need for development, but it must be done responsibly and with the interests of Formby at heart.”

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