Residents left in the dark as surprise land clearance for housing begins

Residents of Broome Road in Southport were left in shock on Monday when contractors arrived without warning, bringing heavy machinery to clear vegetation and prepare land for investigations for potential development.

The work, commissioned by Sefton Council-owned Sandway Homes, is part of a feasibility study to assess the land’s suitability for housing. While no formal planning application has been submitted, the area between Broome Road and Bentham’s Way has long been earmarked for affordable housing in Sefton Council’s Local Plan.

Sandway Homes has since apologised to residents, acknowledging that a courtesy letter explaining the works was not properly distributed.

OTS News investigations have revealed a trail of council documents dating back to 2014 that identified this land for housing development.

In 2016, the proposed housing area was reduced to address drainage and flooding concerns.

A 2023 document reaffirmed the land’s designation for housing under the Sefton Council Local Plan, suggesting space for up to 174 affordable homes. However, OTS News understands that any firm proposal is likely to seek permission for only around 70 homes.

In response to residents’ concerns, Sandway Homes delivered a letter stating: “The contractor has the necessary permissions to carry out the partial clearance, both ecologically and under licence by the land owner, therefore the works will be continuing.

“The planned works (which are being carried out by Sandway Homes (not Sefton Council) have already been subject to a full ecological assessment by TEP (The Environment Partnership) with permission granted for the work to be carried out following the end of bird nesting season, which ended in August.

“All work will be conducted following their guidance which is specific to this site and the species living there.”