Plans for 1500 new homes at Whitecross
THE village of Whitecross will be transformed into an eco-friendly metropolis if plans for 1500 new homes, a primary school and community facilities go ahead.
Morston Assets have submitted pre-application plans to Falkirk Council for redevelopment of a 125 hectare site around the former Manuel Works and surrounding land.
David Morris, head of town planning at Morston Assets said: "This is a development built on sustainable ideals.
"As well as 1500 houses – ranging from family size to low cost social housing – and a primary school, there are plans for an institute for enterprise.
"It would be a centre where employers can come to and help locals set up businesses."
David added: "This is about regenerating Whitecross and this is a big commitment for us.
"It is a real positive during a time of recession.
"There is an emphasis on environmental awareness. It will be great for Whitecross – this is a legacy that we want to be part of and for the community to be proud of."
The development will also have knock-on effects for surrounding towns and it is hoped it will generate its own employment sources.
David added: "There will be advantages for the surrounding area – a vibrant Whitecross is always going to be beneficial for Linlithgow."
A newsletter will be distributed to residents, properties and businesses next month with details of the plans.
A two-day public presentation is also planned for February 3-4 where locals and elected representatives can view the plans.
The public consultation will form part of the planning application which can be submitted by March 25, 2010, at the earliest.
If plans are approved, work in Whitecross could begin in early 2011 and it is envisaged the project would take 10-15 years to complete.
Support has already been voiced by surrounding communities with Linlithgow councillor Tom Conn saying: "It is a good development for Whitecross in our view.
"High street traders in Linlithgow would benefit from shoppers coming from Whitecross."
However, he added that some concerns would need to be addressed.
"With the original plans, there were no strong objections from the community council but we do need to look at car journeys into the town centre so we can minimise any problems.
"If people were making car journeys to the railway station, how would the town cope with the increase in traffic and car parking?
"Commuter travel is something we would like to discuss at this stage."
editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk
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