Retail plan to come under scrutiny

A CONTROVERSIAL plan to convert the former Total Fitness gym at Warrington into a retail store is to be closely scrutinised by planning chiefs.
Members of Warrington’s planning committee have deferred a decision on the scheme to give time for the applicants – Foden Estates Ltd – to provide more information.
The scheme is considered to represent a departure from the borough’s development plan.
Officers accept that the plan is in conflict with the borough’s development plan but are recommending it for approval.
Total Fitness closed unexpectedly in September, with members being offered membership at other nearby branches.
At the time, the company indicated the closure arose from their landlord selling the business.
Now Foden Estates are seeking a change of use of the building in Winwick Road, Warrington.
They indicate the store would sell electrical goods and appliances, stationery and office supplies, DIY products, houseware, camping and leisure goods, motor and cycle good, furniture, carpets, bedding, soft furnishings, pets and related accessories, including pet food.
Planning officers say the proposal is in conflict with the borough’s development plan.
But they say it is important to consider whether retail uses in the out-of-centre location pose a threat to the vitality and viability of the town centre.
The need to support economic growth and job creation is a material consideration, as is the fact that the applicant’s operational model cannot currently be accommodated in the town centre.
Officers say there is scope to resist the application but are recommending the scheme be approved because of the potential for job creation and to prevent a long term vacancy occurring near a main road corridor into the town.
It is claimed the scheme would create 120 jobs.