West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper has raised residents’ serious concerns over Network Rail’s proposed new substation on Mickering Lane.

Local residents are worried about what has been described as an ‘eyesore’ on the local area, as well as the noise they will be subjected to - and potential health risks.

MP Rosie contacted the applicant Network Rail, Merseyrail and the local planning authority West Lancashire Borough Council to ensure that residents’ views are clearly heard.

According to Network Rail, the substation will typically consist of 3 metal buildings, each building will approximately be 3.5m in height, 10m long and 3m wide - there will also be 2 external power transformers and electrical equipment, and the site will be surrounded by a 3m tall metal palisade fence.

Rosie also raised concerns over only informing a minimum number of residents about the planning application, a move seen by some as underhanded. Cooper told QLocal this evening: "An application was submitted by Network Rail to West Lancashire Borough Council to construct this substation, that seemingly very few people were even made aware of.

“As soon as I heard about it I contacted the authorities to find out exactly what was being planned and what consultation or communication they had had with residents.

“Following this, Network Rail decided to hold a public information event, to which local residents turned out in force to learn more about the application and for many to make known their opposition to the plans: https://ormskirk.qlocal.co.uk/ormski...n-55036822.htm

“Many residents are understandably worried about the noise that could come from this substation and the effect on their property values if this is to go ahead.

“I’ve made sure that West Lancashire Borough Council and Network Rail will fully consider the local residents’ views and opposition to this plan should they opt to proceed with it. I will be monitoring the situation as it develops.”

Aughton residents have also signed a petition against the substation, with 84 nearby residents adding their names; the borough council planning committee's due to consider the controversial application at its May meeting.