West Lancashire Borough Council has officially approved the Skelmersdale Masterplan, a landmark decision that sets in motion a long-term regeneration strategy aimed at revitalising the town through economic growth, improved transport and community-focused development.

The Masterplan was approved at a Full Council meeting following a six-week public consultation which saw 2,886 residents engage with the proposals and 325 complete a survey. The feedback showed strong community support for initiatives focused on better transport connections, enhanced public spaces, and increased business opportunities.

While the response was broadly positive, the Council made key refinements to the final Masterplan in response to public input. Notable changes include relocating the Concourse Bus Station to street level to improve accessibility, increasing investment in Tawd Valley Park, and reducing the housing density of the Yewdale Residential Scheme.

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A central feature of the plan is the development of approximately 400 new homes on the Glenburn site, seen as essential to attracting the public and private investment required to deliver the wider vision for Skelmersdale. However, in response to concerns about infrastructure strain—particularly around healthcare, education, and transport—the housing rollout will be phased and closely coordinated with relevant service providers.

The Masterplan also includes a proposed wellbeing and leisure hub, alongside around 28,000 sq. ft of new commercial space along the new high street. These developments will create venues for dining, retail, and business incubation, supporting job creation and long-term economic vitality.

To ensure sustainable delivery, Tawd Valley Developments Limited (TVDL), the Council’s wholly owned development company, will lead the regeneration effort. TVDL will manage site preparation, infrastructure improvements, and public realm upgrades while selling plots for development in phases. This approach allows the Council to retain strategic oversight and respond flexibly to market conditions, funding opportunities, and community needs.

Ongoing stakeholder engagement is planned to ensure that residents, businesses, and other key groups remain informed and involved as individual schemes within the Masterplan come forward.