Landmark pub may make way for homes

A LANDMARK pub – listed as a building of local importance at Warrington – could be converted for residential use if a controversial planning application wins approval.
The De Vere Group is seeking permission to convert the former Ship Inn in Chester Road, Walton and its outbuildings into three residential units as part of a wider scheme involving construction of 11 houses on a 1.25 hectares site.
If approved, it would mean a second change of use for the pub which, in recent years, has been used as an Indian restaurant.
But Walton Parish Council has objected to the scheme on the grounds the access to the site from the A56 Chester Road is unsuitable and could be hazardous.
Nearby residents are also opposing the plan on similar grounds and because it would encroach onto the Green Belt.
Eight years ago, a plan to build 15 detached houses on the site was thrown out.
But planning officers are now recommending the scheme be approved.
They say the existing less-than-ideal access arrangements would be improved and the locally listed building would be retained as there are no plans to physically alter it.
The applicant is offered £150,000 towards the cost of off-site affordable housing and £10,000 towards the provision of off-site open space and recreation facilities as well as funding for road safety and traffic regulation works.
The Environment Agency is not opposing the scheme subject to conditions to protect against flooding from a stream which runs through the site.
Badger setts have been located on adjoining land but planners believe the development will not have any significant impact on the survival of badgers in the area.