Beauty spot cafe plan deferred

PLANNING bosses have put off a decision on a controversial proposal to build a cafe at a popular Warrington beauty spot.
Members of the borough council’s planning committee want to visit the site at Appleton Reservoir where the single-storey cafe would be built.
Nearby residents and Appleton Parish Council have lodged objections to the proposal, which would also include toilets and a car park.
The cafe would be built close to the Grade 2 Listed Daintith Farm, off Park Lane.
Warrington Anglers Association and Warrington Amateur Triathlon Club have welcomed the scheme as a much-needed facility that could be used by their members.
But opponents argue that it would be inappropriate in the Green Belt and that the proposed modern design of the building would not relate to the rural setting nor be compatible with the nearby Listed buildings.
Planning officers are recommending the scheme be approved.
They say the development would be small in scale and would help to support Warrington’s visitor and tourism economy.
Appleton Reservoir is used by anglers, bird watchers, joggers and walkers. It is a SINC – a Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation – and a popular beauty spot.
Nearby residents fear increased car parking problems, noise, air pollution and the loss of wildlife habitats such as trees and hedges.
Planning officers point out there is evidence of the site being used before, as there is existing hardstanding, which means it is brownfield land. The development would not significantly encroach into the Green Belt.