Developer seeks talks with planners

HOUSE builders Bloor Homes has now approached Warrington planning chiefs for pre-application talks on their controversial proposals to build more than 80 homes at Appleton Thorn.
No formal planning application has yet been made – and sceptical villagers are speculating that it could be made in the run-up to the Christmas holiday period when it might escape the notice of many people.
Two consultation meetings by the company have done nothing to convince the majority of residents that Appleton Thorn needs any more houses – particularly on the site off Stretton Road, opposite the village hall, which many had hoped might one day become a village green.
Bloor have put forward three options for local people to consider – involving 76, 67 and 56 homes respectively. But the plan displayed at the original consultation meeting showed 82 homes.
Cllr Dot Edwards (pictured), chairman of Appleton Parish Council, said: “We understand the developer has asked for pre-application talks with the borough council. This is their first official move. The consultation meetings were purely for the benefit of local people.
“But we have not heard anything about a formal planning application yet.
“The parish council can’t oppose anything until we have seen an application – but we have made it clear we are likely to support the residents who are opposed to the scheme.”

Pictures from a peaceful residents protest about the proposals