Proposed Residential Development
Phase 4 - Holbeck Rise, Barrow-in-Furness
The Proposals
The development proposals include the following key design principles:
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Provision of up to 320 homes to meet Barrow’s emerging housing needs, including affordable homes, and a range of types from starter homes to larger family homes and bungalows suitable for older persons.
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An outward facing, landscape-led development that respects and integrates with the recently approved development and character of the existing Holbeck area.
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Development parcels and massing that work with the natural contours and landscape structure of the site, including bungalows proposed on the higher ground in the northern section of the site, to minimise visual impacts.
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A substantial green infrastructure network for existing and new residents to enjoy, including:
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Retention and enhancement of the existing landscape structure to provide screening and integrate the site with the wider landscape.
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Green corridors throughout the site including new planting, footpaths and sustainable drainage features.
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Formal open spaces around the drumlin features in the centre and the north east corner of the site, including children’s play areas and landscaping.
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Access via the approved road arrangement from the residential scheme to the south, with the main access off Leece Lane and secondary access via Kempas Avenue; with an additional emergency access and Active Travel route proposed through Fir Tree Rise to the north west of the site.
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New footpaths connections throughout the site to improve permeability and connectivity with the existing residential neighbourhood to the west.
We intend to submit an outline application in late 2026 for up to 320 homes with all matters reserved, on the basis that vehicular access detail has already been established through the full application approval to the south (Ref: 2022/0381), which this proposal connects into.
This outline application will seek to establish the principle, quantum and overall structure of development on the site, with indicative layout and landscape masterplans provided, including road connections with the approved development to the south, as above.
This would then be followed by a Reserved Matters application (expected 2028) which would provide further details on the access arrangements, internal road network, drainage strategy, landscape planting, open spaces, and the design, appearance and mix of the proposed homes.
This detailed housing mix, in terms of the types and tenures of market and affordable housing required, will be informed by the Council’s emerging housing market evidence, which is being worked up in dialogue with BAE and other key stakeholders to ensure that jobs growth and wider economic aspirations for Barrow are delivered, and will be completed by the time Reserved Matters submissions are made.
Technical Considerations
Landscape
The landscape and visual assessment work has established key landscape views and receptors on site, and has sought to protect and screen these within the development.
In landscape terms the proposals respond to the existing green infrastructure on site by retaining existing hedgerows and trees where possible, and creating large formal open spaces around the drumlin features in the centre and the north east corner of the site; supplemented by children’s play areas, green corridors, pedestrian routes and other incidental open spaces throughout the site to offer a varied activity network, utilising landform, planting and natural features.
Overall, the green infrastructure proposed on site will create new opportunities for ecological enhancement and connectivity, along with sustainable drainage solutions. The proposed landscaping will ensure that the development is in keeping with the existing landscape character of the area.
