Planners to rule on Green Belt “granny annex”

PLANNING chiefs  at Warrington are being asked to rule on a controversial “granny” annex that has been built on Green Belt land without planning permission.
Croft Parish Council has objected to the proposals on the grounds that the development in Warrington Road, Croft,  is a new building in the Green Belt.
But the applicant maintains the building occupies the site of a garage that was demolished because its foundations were inadequate.
A report to be considered by the borough’s development management committee indicates that the “granny” annex has been built adjoining a semi-detached cottage.
Although planners accept that it is “inappropriate” development in the Green Belt, they say if permission is refused, it will open up the site for further building under permitted development rights.
Because of this, they are recommending the scheme be approved to enable permitted development rights to be removed from the site.
The applicant says the building will be ancillary to the cottage, with all meals being taken there.
It is understood the annex will be occupied by a disabled member of the family.