Council Leader Cllr Jonathan Brook updated Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet on developments regarding the Windermere Gateway project today.
Cllr Brook told the meeting that the housing scheme, including the anticipated outline planning application, cannot proceed to timetables set by Homes England in respect of the grant funding to enable the necessary highways infrastructure improvements. As a result, the grant agreement for the enabling highways infrastructure required to support the housing development will not be taken forward at this time.
Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet had previously agreed to finalise an agreement with Homes England to receive Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land Funding of £9.95 million for Windermere Gateway, to deliver the associated highways works related to the proposed housing development at Orrest Head Farm.
Joint statement from Windermere Gateway partners:
"Partners involved in the Windermere Gateway project, have undertaken extensive joint efforts to progress the proposed housing site at Orrest Head Farm.
"Despite the significant collaboration, commitment and planning work to date, a number of challenges have recently arisen that affect the deliverability of this project.
"Given the emerging funding and delivery constraints, the housing scheme, including the anticipated outline planning application, cannot proceed to timetables set by Homes England in respect of the grant funding to enable the necessary highways infrastructure improvements.
"As a result, the grant agreement for the enabling highways infrastructure required to support the housing development will not be taken forward at this time.
"This decision has not been taken lightly. The considerable work and dedication of all partners and stakeholders involved is recognised and appreciated, and we (key partners: Westmorland and Furness Council, Lake District National Park Authority and the National Trust) remain fully committed to delivering the ambitions of the Windermere Gateway. We will continue to explore opportunities to unlock the much-needed affordable housing, transport improvements and economic opportunities.
"As soon as we know more we will communicate developments to stakeholders and the community."
The Windermere Gateway Project is a partnership between the National Trust, the Lake District National Park Authority, Westmorland and Furness Council and housing developer Urban Splash, with a long-term vision to unlock opportunities for a mix of new, much-needed homes, jobs, sustainable transport connections and a much-improved welcome for residents and visitors alike.
Find out more about the project at the Windermere Gateway website.