Plans have been submitted for a new motorway services area on the outskirts Preston, the first facility of its kind in the area.
Moto, the largest motorway services area (MSA) operator in UK, has submitted a planning application for the MSA at Junction 2 of the M55 motorway that will offer essential amenities for motorists.
Currently, the closest facilities are in Forton, located 15 miles to the north, and Charnock Richard, 18 miles to the south.
Plans for the scheme, submitted by planning consultancy PWA Planning, include an amenity building, extensive parking facilities for cars, coaches, motorcycles, caravans, and HGVs, a petrol filling station, and a dedicated HGV fuel filling station with an associated shop. The aspiration is that up to 50 parking spaces will provide dedicated EV charging facilities upon opening.
Jess Lockwood, property director at Moto, said: “Our vision at Moto is to transform the UK’s motorway service experience while supporting the country’s transition to sustainable energy.
“With our plans for Junction 2 of the M55, we are providing state-of-the-art services for every motorist, from EV owners to HGV drivers. Our commitment to sustainability, road safety, and job creation means this project will deliver real benefits to the local community, and we’re excited to bring forward these proposals.”
Designed by Cartwright and Gross, it will also feature a new access point off the M55 Junction 2 roundabout and a network of internal circulation roads, as well as landscaping and biodiversity enhancements. The scheme will achieve in excess of 20% net gain in biodiversity on site.
Our team managed the pre-application process and prepared and submitted the planning application.
Louise Leyland, associate at PWA Planning, said: “This development is a crucial addition to the M55 corridor as it will fill a significant gap in services for motorists, enhancing safety and convenience along this busy route.
“It’s a project that balances infrastructure needs with sustainability and economic growth, and we’re proud to be working with Moto to bring it to life.”
The MSA will create approximately 120 full-time jobs, with a strong focus on employing local residents.
The new M55 Junction 2 connects the motorway to new link roads to the west of Preston and south of the M55. This includes the new Edith Rigby Way, the main road linking the A583 with the new junction, as well as William Young Way and Avice Pimblett Way.
