Council approves major development plan to deliver new homes and boost local economy
West Lancashire Borough Council has approved the updated Business Plan submitted by Tawd Valley Developments Limited (TVDL), its wholly owned development company.
The revised plan sets out an expanded programme of regeneration, housing and economic development across the Borough, aligned with Council priorities and designed to deliver long-term financial returns.
Key additions in the newly - approved business plan include the following proposed schemes and services:
- Grimrod Place, Skelmersdale: Development of eight new business units for long-term commercial rental, supporting local enterprise and job creation.
- Yewdale, Skelmersdale: Delivery of 25 new social rent homes, one of the first schemes to emerge from the Skelmersdale Town Centre Masterplan.
- Derby Street Civic Centre Redevelopment: Demolition of the existing council offices and construction of 64 new homes across two apartment buildings.
- Consultancy Services: TVDL will act as Master Developer and Project Manager for:
- The Skelmersdale Town Centre Masterplan
- The Council’s Accommodation Strategy (both approved in April 2025)
These additions bring the total number of schemes in the Business Plan to 20, with a combined forecast development cost of £164 million. The programme aims to deliver 680 new homes, 59 business units, improvements to the public open spaces in Skelmersdale Town Centre in support of the recently approved Masterplan, and a Solar Farm.
Councillor Dowling, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Planning and Community Safety, said: “We are pleased to approve this forward-looking Business Plan which will bring real benefits to the people in this Borough.
“Tawd Valley Developments continues to be a vital partner who will be building more high-quality homes that local families can afford, creating jobs through partnerships with local suppliers and trades, and investing in greener infrastructure that makes our communities more resilient.
“Whether you're a resident looking for a better place to live or a business hoping to grow locally, this plan is about making West Lancashire a better place to live, work, and thrive.”
Councillor Nicola Pryce-Roberts, Lead Member for Housing, said: “This Business Plan represents a responsible and forward-thinking approach to meeting local housing needs.
“It supports the delivery of well-designed, energy-efficient homes that reflect the needs of our communities from affordable rent to quality new builds.
“We’re focused on ensuring that every development contributes positively to the Borough, both socially and economically.”
