Plan ditched over takeaway fears

PLANNING chiefs have thrown out proposals for a retail and restaurant development on a Warrington garage site – after nearby residents voiced fears that a takeaway might be set up.
The scheme involved redevelopment of the Whitecross Car Sales site in Old Liverpool Road.
Neighbours objected on the grounds of inadequate parking and a failure to adhere to conditions on previous planning consents on the site – and also expressed fears that a restaurant opening from 8.30am to 6pm would, in fact, be a takeaway.
Planning officers had recommended the scheme be approved.
Permission for car sales was given in 2010 and, originally, it had been intended to retain a car sales element in the new proposal.
But car sales were omitted from the new application which was for retail, financial or professional offices in a new, purpose built detached building – and a restaurant or café.
Officers argued the proposed changes would not impact on existing retailing and could be accommodated without causing significant harm to the character and amenity of the area.
They believed adequate provision has been made for parking and the development would not hinder the flow of traffic along Old Liverpool Road.