South Planks Farm, Garstang Road, Myerscough, Lancashire: Archaeological Desk-based Assessment and Walkover Survey

Natural Retreats have proposed the construction of a holiday resort on land surrounding South Planks Farm, which was historically in the parish of Myerscough, now Myerscough and Bilsborrow, and is south of both settlements (centred on NGR SD 5095 3849). The planning application (ref 11/00168/LMAJ) comprises the alteration and extension of existing buildings to form a trailhead, visitor centre with cafe, conference facilities, bike hire centre with ancillary facilities, nine accommodation units, 43 detached holiday lodges and the formation of wildlife lakes and habitat. Lancashire County Archaeological Service (LCAS) has recommended an archaeological desk-based assessment and walkover survey to inform the planning process as to the potential impact of the proposed development on the cultural heritage resources. Natural Retreats commissioned Oxford Archaeology North (OA North) to undertake the desk-based assessment and walkover survey, which were carried out in April and May 2011.