A FORMER terraced house which was converted into a hostel for the homeless without planning consent is to be allowed to stay “in business” for a trial period of 12 months.
The property in Bewsey Street – used latterly as a clinic – has been at the centre of allegations of anti-social activity.
But a government-appointed planning inspector has ruled that there is no evidence of a link between the hostel and anti-social behaviour.
Nearby residents, supported by borough councillors Pat Wright and Bob Timmis, opposed a retrospective planning application for the hostel last year and the borough council’s development control committee rejected it.
But an appeal was lodged and the inspector who dealt with it has dismissed complaints of anti-social activity as “hearsay” and pointed out there is no firm evidence to connect it with the hostel anyway.
Loud music and other noise which neighbours have complained about can happen in any area, he said.
The hostel had the support of the National Probation Service, which claimed if it were not available the homeless situation in Warrington would be much more severe.
A council spokesman said evidence of anti-social behaviour put forward by the council and residents was insufficient to outweigh the potential benefits in terms of national and local policy for the homeless.
The inspector’s decision in allowing permission for 12 months gave the opportunity of a “trial run.”
