Building giant Taylor Wimpey – who originally stated they aimed to submit detailed plans for 650 new homes on the former site of Whittingham Hospital "during the first half of 2009" – now say this could be delayed for a further six months.
A statement released by the company said this week: "We are actively progressing discussions with the Homes and Communities Agency and we are
hoping to be in a position to submit a reserved matters planning application in the second half of 2009."
Despite the economic climate, collapse of the housing market and severe down turn in business for the UK's largest house builder, Taylor Wimpey vowed in February to press ahead with its plans for the controversial development saying it was "committed to the Whittingham Hospital
site".
The company was given the go-ahead on appeal late last year to build up to 650 new homes and develop 9,000sqm of light industry on the 147-acre site following a public inquiry held a year ago.
The plans also include provision of a primary school, senior playing pitch, tennis court, relocation of the bowling green, recreational and play facilities, new access to Whittingham Lane and alterations to the existing access to Cumeragh Lane, open space and landscaping
and associated infrastructure (including retention of the existing cricket pitch and pavilion) and were granted with no fewer than 30 conditions.
A separate application has to be submitted for St John's Church, which is a listed building and discussions over plans for its conversion have been ongoing between the former government regeneration agency EP, now the Homes and Communities Agency.
The Broughton bypass remains financially dependent on housing at Whittingham, the developers committed to fund its southern section from
Broughton roundabout to Whittingham Lane, and the county council the northern half through to Barton, but only if the Whittingham housing is built.