The Development Control Committee of Lancashire Council met on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, and granted planning permission for two applications: one for a green waste composting facility at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham, and another for a children's care home at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood. The committee also noted a report on development control decisions made by the Director of Environment and Regulatory.

Land at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham

Planning permission was granted for a change of use of land from agriculture to green waste composting at Tarnbrick Farm, Kirkham. The application also included the construction of a new internal access road, a new building for a workshop and processing, and an extension to an existing building for storage. The proposal was considered a reasonable extension to an established rural business, with measures in place to improve site functionality and protect neighbouring amenity and the rural landscape. Technical assessments confirmed that drainage and highway matters could be satisfactorily addressed.

Concerns were raised by local residents regarding potential increases in noise, odour, and traffic, as well as health risks associated with composting operations. However, the committee heard that the proposed development would not intensify the operation but rather rationalise and improve its efficiency. The existing operational hours would be maintained, and odour control is primarily managed by an Environmental Agency permit. The new buildings and improved circulation were expected to help manage impacts. A condition was added to ensure a revised landscaping scheme is implemented to address visual impacts and prevent future encroachment of composting activities.

Land at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood

Planning permission was granted for a change of use of a residential property at 9 Harwood Lane, Great Harwood, to a Class C2 residential institution, to be used as a home for up to two young persons aged between 11 and 17 years. The property will be staffed by no more than two carers overnight, with up to four staff members on duty during the day.

The application was supported by Lancashire County Council, who highlighted a pressing need for local, high-quality homes for children in their care. The proposal was seen as meeting this need, providing a stable and nurturing environment within the community, close to schools and support networks. Concerns from local residents about increased noise, activity, traffic, and parking were addressed. It was noted that the level of activity would be comparable to a typical family household, and the property has adequate on-site parking for six vehicles, with no objections raised by the Highways Authority. The committee also heard that issues raised by residents regarding house prices, safety, and safeguarding were not considered material planning matters.

Decisions taken on development control matters by the Director of Environment and Regulatory

The committee noted a report detailing decisions made by the Director of Environment and Regulatory in accordance with the County Council's Scheme of Delegation. These decisions included:

• Lancaster: Prior approval for the demolition of a former site caretaker's house at Ryelands Community Primary School.
• West Lancashire: An Environmental Impact Assessment screening opinion request for proposed works to upgrade the Wigan and Skelmersdale Wastewater Treatment Works.
• Chorley: An Environmental Impact Assessment screening opinion request for a retrospective planning application to amend conditions at Clayton Hall Sand Quarry.
• Burnley: Installation of additional boundary security fencing at Ightenhall Primary School.