Chatsworth Gardens
JOINT statement from Lancaster City Council and the Homes and Communities Agency
OVER the last 18 months the UK has experienced a severe economic recession which has affected many regeneration projects across the country.
Regrettably, due to these difficult market conditions, and in the light of extensive further research and appraisal work, it has now been recognised that the proposed Chatsworth Gardens development is no longer viable in the form it was originally envisaged.
Lancaster City Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), however, remain committed to regenerating this important site and will continue to work together closely to develop a scheme which will have long lasting benefits for the people of Morecambe.
Coun Evelyn Archer, Cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration, said: “It is obviously disappointing that Places for People has not been able to progress the Chatsworth Gardens project, but this decision will not change the fact that Morecambe remains a regeneration priority.
“There are a number of options open to us for the regeneration of this important site and the council and the HCA both remain committed to finding a solution which will complement Morecambe’s heritage.”
Deborah McLaughlin, regional director of the HCA said: “We are committed to continuing to work with the council to find a solution that will deliver much needed family homes in Morecambe.
“We all regret that, as scheme costs have increased and values decreased, the scheme is no longer economically viable. “
Date Published: 16/12/09