Appletree Basin, Quernmore Brow, Lancaster, LA2 0QP

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area, which lies within the Forest of Bowland National Landscape
• whether the appeal site is a suitable location for the proposed development, having regard to local and national planning policies
• whether the proposal is an acceptable form of development having regard to flood risk
• whether the proposed development would provide adequate foul water drainage

What decided it

The significant harm to the character and appearance of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, which provides a strong reason for refusal under paragraph 11d) of the Framework, outweighs the modest benefits of housing supply and heritage conservation.

The modest benefits of housing supply, renewable energy, native planting and biodiversity net gain, and the moderate local historic significance of the pumping station building, were afforded moderate weight but were not sufficient to outweigh the great weight given to conserving and enhancing landscape and scenic beauty within the National Landscape and the significant harm identified.