Reservoir cafe plan back again

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington are to study plans for a café and leisure facility on land adjoining Appleton Reservoir for a second time.
Members of the borough council’s planning committee have visited the beauty spot since the plans were first put before them and are expected to reach a decision at a meeting on Wednesday, October 2.
The single-storey building, which would include toilets, would have parking for eight cars and eight cycles.
Planning officers believe a café on the site – formerly part of the Grade 2 Listed Daintith Farm – would be acceptable and the application is supported by Warrington Anglers Association and Warrington Amateur Triathlon club, who both believe it would provide a much-need facility for their members.
But it is opposed by a number of nearby residents and by Appleton Parish Council.
Planners argue that the development, off Park Lane, 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, they say.