DEVELOPERS planning to build 23 new homes in Askam are to be asked to contribute funds for road construction and the reconfiguration of a GP surgery when their plans are to be decided upon next week.

Barrow Borough Council's Planning Committee will decide on whether or not to approve these plans for Lots Road on May 25 following numerous concerns and responses from consultees.

Askam and Ireleth Parish Council believed more money needed to be put into Lots Road to make it safe for this work.

"“There was no comment with regard to the development itself, but concerns were raised regarding the proximity to Askam Village School particularly during the construction phase and ask that safety measures are taking into consideration to protect the children, parents, carers and staff at the school," the council responded.

“Concerns were again raised regarding Lots Road, which is not fit for purpose and any new houses will impact on this road.

“The parish council noted that monies were being contributed by the Developer. Without having knowledge of what Cumbria Highways intend to do to make the Lots Road safe for vehicles and pedestrians it is difficult to make an objective comment. But the Parish Council felt that £15,950 was not a sufficient amount to make Lots Road safe and up to a standard which will improve access and safety into our village."

Cumbria County Council Highways responded to the application stating that A cycle-way improvement scheme Askam to Thwaite Flatt and Dalton has provisionally been costed at £77,760 for an on-road upgrade.

“There is also concern about the impact the increased trips generated by the cumulative growth in residential sites in Askam and Ireleth will have on Lots Road from its junction with the A595 to New Road," Highways said.

“The total cost of the infrastructure ask is £94,360 or £725 per dwelling. Therefore, for this site with 23 dwellings planned, the developer’s contribution towards infrastructure will be £16,675.”

Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group has also requested a contribution of £6,431 towards the extension and

reconfiguration at The Askam & Dalton GP Surgery . Justifying this request, the CCG said: "This proposal will generate approximately 56 new patient registrations based on average household size. The proposed development falls within the catchment area of the surgery Askam & Dalton surgery.

"From a CCG perspective the growth generated from this proposed development would not trigger consideration of the commissioning of a new general practice; it would however trigger a requirement to support the practice."

The officers report recommends approval subject to conditions, it said: "A scheme has been put forward which would deliver 23 dwellings including three affordable units."