“Granny flat garage” given the go-ahead

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have given the go-ahead for a garage with a “granny flat” above it – but imposed strict conditions to ensure it cannot be redeveloped to become a separate dwelling.
The proposed site is within the grounds of a Locally Lised house – Birch Tree House – in Red Lane, Appleton.
It will replace an existing timber garage which, according to Appleton Parish Council, is more in keeping with the main house.
The parish council had lodged objections on the grounds the proposal was for a separate, habitable building which would be a substantial building in its own right and would have the potential to be converted into an independent dwelling.
They believed the garage with granny flat over it might detract from the character of the Locally Listed house.
Planning officers recommended the scheme be approved, even though they accepted a slightly different siting might have been preferable.
They maintained the new building would respect the main house in terms of design replicating windows and brick detail.
Pictured: the Locally Listed house