Last updated 12:33, Tuesday, 29 July 2008

AN empty plot of land looks set to be transformed into a “high-quality” housing estate.

By Richard Herbert

Six, three-bedroom terraced homes are planned for the fenced-off site next to Furness Health Studio in Greengate Street, Barrow.

The homes would be rented out and managed by Accent housing association.

It is currently seeking planning permission for the houses from Barrow Borough Council.

A consultation on the proposals began on Friday.

The council is likely to decide whether to grant Accent’s application within the next two months.

A two-page report about the plans, called a design and access statement, tells of the “ongoing demand” for the type of houses proposed.

It also claims the new homes would improve the look of the neighbourhood.

The report says: “There is an ongoing demand for this type of accommodation in this area. As the buildings will be designed and constructed to achieve Housing Corporation (a government agency that funds new affordable homes and regulates housing associations) and other current quality standards and comply with current building regulations, the scheme represents a relevant, high-quality development which will contribute in a positive way to the character of the immediate area.”

Sue Mellen, area manager for Accent, told the Evening Mail that if it got planning permission for the houses, it would like to start on site “as soon as possible”.

According to the paperwork submitted to the council, the “overgrown” site has been vacant and fenced off “for some considerable time”, and was last used as a car maintenance workshop.