More than 220 homes planned for Warrington
Three applications which would bring 224 homes to Warrington are set to be approved at the council’s planning committee next week.
The first application recommended for approval is from Lane End Developments, for a 100% affordable retirement housing scheme at the site of the Blackburne Arms pub.
The 6,500 sq ft pub, at Orford Green, would be demolished to make way for the 52 apartments, against which locals have sent in letters of objection. According to the developer, “public houses of this nature have seen a steady decline over recent years with many being forced to close due to various reasons, and we therefore have to consider the long-term viability of the site.
“The area is mainly residential, and it is considered that the social impact of the development will be positive through a reduction in noise and potential nuisance associated with the public house”.
The units would be a mix of 22 two-bedrooms and 30 one-bedroom flats.
A previous application was submitted and subsequently withdrawn for a larger retirement scheme of 63 apartments.
Architect Paddock Johnson Partnership said “the designs produced for the Blackburne Arms site will provide much needed accommodation for the elderly which in turn will free up larger family homes for market sale.”
The second and third application on the agenda, which are both recommended for approval, are from Homes England and Rowland Homes, and would see 172 houses built on two neighbouring plots, to the south of Astor Drive and east of Witherwin Avenue.
Homes England secured outline consent for the development in January 2018.
A reserved matters application for the site was refused last year due to its impact on highway safety, its overbearing nature on adjacent homes, and the belief that the development would not enhance character or reinforce local distinctiveness.
The overall site has three phases. The second phase would total 30 acres and is the largest plot being brought forward. An application will be submitted at a later date.
De Pol Associates is the planner and Atkins designed the proposals.