Petition to Stop the Fleetwood Farm Housing Development and Support a Village Shopping Centre in Banks

We are asking the local council to reconsider the current housing plans for Fleetwood Farm, a historic site built in 1787. Instead of more housing, we believe the best use of this space would be a village shopping centre, providing much-needed services and shops for the growing community in Banks and the wider North Meols Parish.

Why a Village Shopping Centre is Needed

Population Growth: The number of people living in North Meols has increased by 23.39% over the last 20 years. In 2001, the population was 3,792 and by 2021, it reached 4,679​.

Households have also risen from 1,600 to 2,100, and with this growth, there is a clear need for more local services and shops. 

Older and Younger Residents:

26% of residents are aged 65+, many of whom need easy access to local shops and services

16% are under 18, meaning families need nearby amenities and places for recreation​.

Without local shops, residents currently have to travel to surrounding areas which is inconvenient, especially for elderly residents or those without easy transport options.

Caravan Parks and Seasonal Workers: North Meols is also home to caravan parks like Riverside and Brooklyn, housing  permanent residents which are likely missed in demographic figures.  There are also seasonal workers living in  on local farms during peak seasons, need accessible shops for daily essentials​ adding further strains/needs to the area.

Successful Retail Models in Nearby Villages

The success of Tarleton’s Mark Square, Burscough Wharf and spaces such as Cedar Farm and Owd Barn shows that village shopping centres can create vibrant community hubs. These retail spaces offer a mix of local shops, cafes, and small businesses, which not only meet the daily needs of residents but also attract visitors, boosting the local economy.

Mark Square in Tarleton has a variety of essential shops, offering a model for a local retail hub that serves the everyday needs of residents.
Burscough Wharf has successfully combined retail, dining, and artisan markets, creating a destination that brings together local businesses and the community.  Cedar Farm and Owd Barn have become thriving spaces that blend shopping with social spaces, supporting small businesses.
These examples show how a well-designed village shopping centre can enhance local life, offering a central point for socializing, shopping, and supporting local business.

What a Village Shopping Centre Would Bring to Banks

Local Shops and Services: A shopping centre at Fleetwood Farm would provide much-needed retail outlets like grocery stores, cafes, and essential services, reducing the need to travel outside the village.

Boosting Local Businesses: It would support local entrepreneurs and create jobs within the community, helping to grow the local economy.

A Social Hub: The shopping centre would be a gathering place for the community, allowing people of all ages—whether older residents, families, or seasonal workers—to come together.

Conclusion

The population in North Meols is growing fast, and the services available haven't kept pace. A village shopping centre at Fleetwood Farm would serve all residents, making life easier for those who live here, supporting local businesses, and fostering a stronger sense of community. By signing this petition, you are supporting a better future for Banks, ensuring that the area has the infrastructure needed to support its people.

Please sign this petition to pressure the council into considering creation of a village shopping centre at Fleetwood Farm, ensuring that Banks can grow sustainably and meet the needs of all its residents