Story Homes has begun construction on 111 new homes at West End Farm in Ulverston.
The new housing development, known as Millfields, has many locals questioning the sustainability of the project.
READ MORE: Work underway on new 111 home development in Ulverston
Concerns about infrastructure and affordability are at the forefront of community discussions.
“Not another that locals can’t afford,” one local said, expressing frustration over the rising cost of housing in the area.
Many residents are worried that the new homes will not be accessible to those who truly need them, with one local stating, “Any of these houses going to be wheelchair accessible? People are waiting decades for accessible housing”
The project is set to contribute over £900,000 towards Community Infrastructure Levy projects, but some locals are sceptical about whether this will address the pressing needs of the community.
“Get ready for the invasion,” one local remarked, highlighting fears that the influx of new residents will exacerbate existing issues such as traffic congestion and strain on local services.
Concerns about the local infrastructure were echoed by another resident, who asked, “Dentists, schools, doctors, road system. Any of this being sorted?”
The Millfields development is expected to create employment opportunities for subcontractors and suppliers, but many locals are questioning whether these jobs will be accessible to the current residents.
“Hope they are also for improving the road system to Barrow as that’s the only place for people to earn the money to pay the big mortgages that they will want for their expensive homes,” one local noted, emphasizing the need for better transport links.
Environmental concerns have also been raised, with one resident stating, “Building on a another area that’s prone to flooding in the past . Congratulations Story Homes.”
The sentiment that the development is a “deliberate land grab” was echoed by another local, who pointed out the abundance of empty properties across the UK.
As construction progresses, the community remains divided on the potential benefits and drawbacks of the Millfields development.
“More unaffordable houses built on green belt against the council’s own policy,” one local lamented, highlighting the ongoing debate about land use and sustainability in the region.
With the first homes expected to be completed in 2026, the future of Ulverston’s housing landscape hangs in the balance, as residents continue to voice their concerns and hopes for the new development.
“Any new dentists?” one local asked, reflecting the broader anxieties about whether the new housing will come with the necessary amenities to support a growing population.
One local said: “Another beautiful view replaced by toy town houses!”
As the community grapples with these changes, it remains to be seen how the Millfields development will impact the fabric of Ulverston and its residents.