PLANNING bosses have given the go-ahead for a major new retail store in Warrington – despite the proposal being in conflict with the borough’s development plan.
Foden Estates Ltd have won permission to convert the former Total Fitness gym on Winwick Road into a retail store selling electrical goods and appliances, stationery and office supplies, DIY products, houseware, camping and leisure goods, motor accessories.
Total Fitness closed unexpectedly in September with members being offered membership at other nearby branches.
Planning officers admitted the proposal was in conflict with the borough’s development plan.
But they said it was important to consider whether retail uses in the out-of-centre location posed a threat to the vitality and viability of the town centre.
The need to support economic growth and job creation was a material consideration, as was the fact that the applicant’s operational model could not currently be accommodated elsewhere in the town centre.
In addition to creating new jobs, the development would also prevent a long term vacancy occurring near a main road corridor into the town.
2 Comments
I see no reason why The Range’s operational model will not fit into the old TJ Hughes (Gate House Co-Op Department Store). I seem to remember they were interested in buying some of the old Vergo (Lewis’s / the Co-Op) Department Stores in the South West and East. If them buildings fit the purpose down there why doesn’t the old Warrington Co-op fit?
“important to consider whether retail uses in the out-of-centre location posed a threat to the vitality and viability of the town centre. ” –does that apply with the ongoing talks about teh former Fordton leisure Centre site – who knows? – The council have decided to keep them secret.