Residents lose fight over apartments

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have approved proposals to increase the number of homes in the final phase of the Chapelford urban village – despite strong objections from nearby residents.
A total of 190 dwellings can now be built on the 5.7 hectare site compared with the 156 originally approved – and the increase will be achieved by including three storey apartments in the development.
The borough council’s development management committee approved revised plans submitted by developers David Wilson Homes who say the changes will widen the range of dwelling types in Chapelford and help meet increased demand for apartments.
There was opposition from local councillors Faisal Rashid and Will Hughes, from Great Sankey Parish Council and from the Chapelford Residents Association. Nearly 50 people signed a protest petition.
They argued that the Chapelford Master Plan classed the final phase of building – approved last year – as “low density.” The inclusion of the apartments would affect the quality of life and living environment and result in over-development in a “congested corner” close to the proposed Chapelford railway station.
But the developers said the apartments would give close access to the station for more people and the apartments overlooking the station would provide greater natural surveillance.
Officers recommended the amended scheme be approved and the committee agreed. The changes will increase the density of homes per hectare in Chapelford from 34 to 41 and the total number of homes would be 2110.