Lancashire's new-build activity is concentrated in Central Lancashire (Preston, Chorley and South Ribble), along the Fylde coast, around Lancaster and in the East Lancashire towns. The Future Homes Standard applies across the county from 24 March 2027, but coastal exposure, the Forest of Bowland National Landscape and the mix of strategic sites and small plots all shape how solar PV is specified.
Growth schemes across Lancashire
Some of the larger schemes named in local plans and regeneration programmes across the county. Homes on them that commence after the transitional period will be built to the Future Homes Standard.
- South Lancaster growth area
- Cottam (Preston)
- Buckshaw Village (Chorley)
- Whittingham (Preston)
- Pickering's Farm (South Ribble)
Local Plan & policy context
Preston, Chorley and South Ribble plan jointly through the Central Lancashire Local Plan; the other districts have their own plans. Several carry climate or renewable energy policies, so check the current adopted plan and any supplementary planning documents for your site before fixing the PV specification.
Towns across Lancashire
FHS in Lancashire: what makes this county different
Lancashire developers face the same Future Homes Standard deadlines as elsewhere in England: 24 March 2027, with the transitional period ending 24 March 2028. Two local factors matter. On the Fylde coast and around Morecambe Bay, wind exposure and salt-laden air affect the specification, so check the mounting system's wind-load design (BS EN 1991-1-4) and the module's salt-mist corrosion rating (IEC 61701). Inside the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, expect the planning authority to scrutinise the roof's appearance more closely, which can favour in-roof or tile-style systems.