Plans have been submitted to Knowsley Council to develop 29 houses and apartments on the site of the former Merseyside Dogs Home on Greensbridge Lane in Halewood.
The site closed down suddenly in 2021, leaving many shocked. The land currently consists of the former dogs' home, a substantial house and a number of low quality outbuildings which have fallen into disrepair and since been removed. There is a mixture of hard and soft landscaping across the site.
Background of the former dogs' home
Almost five years ago, after eight years in operation having been founded in 2013, the dogs' home closed for good. In a statement at the time, a spokesperson said the onset of the pandemic had “brought about change” forcing the home to adapt. It was confirmed the charity would leave its centre in Halewood as a result.
As of July this year, the Merseyside Dogs Home Limited charity is listed as ceased to exist on the Charity Commission website.
Development proposals and design
Preston-based applicant BBE Developments is now seeking to repurpose the land to provide new housing. A design and access statement has set out how the site could be repurposed under the new planning application.
The document, compiled by Architectural Emporium on behalf of BBE Developments, said the scheme would contribute to existing plans for the area. It said: “We strongly believe this site, sitting on the edge of the masterplan for East Halewood, is an excellent opportunity for addressing the balance of the housing in the area and the quality of housing as outlined here will address the needs of the local plan.”
The submission also gave a sense of how the development could contribute to the development of a new community. It added: “The layout of the site has been specifically designed to create 'a sense of place'. While it is relatively small when compared to other parcels in the masterplan it has still been designed to look outwards behind the existing woodland while internally it features a central spine becoming the main focal point.”
Affordable housing and next steps
According to the submissions to Knowsley Council, none of the properties made available - comprising 23 houses and six apartments - would be affordable. A statement said: “The applicant has made a concerted effort to engage with local, registered social landlords (RSLs), to test their appetite for taking houses on the application site.
“As part of this, plans and images have been provided to give an understanding of what is to be delivered. It can be seen from the tracker that 11 RSLs were contacted, in writing, with none responding, or registering any interest.”
A financial contribution is to be submitted in lieu of affordable homes being provided. A date has yet to be determined for the plans to be decided on by the local authority's planning team.
