A CONTROVERSIAL plan to re-develop Warrington’s Westbrook Centre is to go ahead.
The scheme – opposed by many nearby residents – was “called in” by the Department of the Environment after the borough council’s development management committee indicated they were minded to approve it.
But the Secretary of State has now indicated the matter should be dealt with locally – which means it can go-ahead.
Local planning chiefs at first deferred a decision on the proposals which involve reconfiguration and part re-development of the centre, which is owned by Asda.
Then they approved the scheme – subject to the “call in.”
Now, however, it can go ahead.
Existing offices and some retail units will be demolished, the car park and access areas will be reconfigured, new shops and commercial leisure units will be erected, together with construction of a new training facility for Asda employees and the existing petrol station will be redeveloped.
A new suite of units on land to the east of the Odeon Cinema will be created, although no details have been given for their use. They could be retail, financial or professional services, restaurants or cafes or assembly/leisure.
From the outset, the scheme was supported by borough councillor Judith Guthrie, on the grounds it would regenerate the Westbrook Centre.
But it was opposed by Cllr Stefan Krizanac, who said the number of retail units would be reduced.
He said the re-development would mean the cinema and other shops would have no allocated parking and would be “at the mercy” of Asda.
The committee was told that more than 17 objections had been received, but there had also been six letters supporting the scheme.
Objectors argued that Asda was not a good neighbour, there would be a loss of trees, traffic issues, vermin and a detrimental impact on nearby residential areas.
But officers recommended the scheme be approved.
