Cheers! Cocktail bar plan is approved

A PLAN to convert first floor offices into a cocktail bar at Culcheth has been given the go-ahead – despite opposition from the parish council.
Members of Warrington’s development management committee approved the scheme in Common Lane, Culcheth.
The scheme involves changing the use of existing offices above the Indian Tiffin restaurant – although the offices have been unused for more than five years.
Culcheth and Glazebury Parish Council objected on the grounds the applicant had given no indication of the likely number of users of the cocktail bar and the access staircase was inadequate and potentially dangerous.
They also feared noise and disturbance for nearby residents and an increase in existing parking problems.
But planning officers recommended the scheme be approved and pointed out that the nearest residential properties were 56 metres away in Thompson Avenue.
The existing offices had been marketed since 2011 without success and it was believed potential tenants had been put off by the possibility of noise and smells from the restaurant below.
It appeared an office use was, therefore, unviable and that a change of use to a cocktail bar, with light refreshment facilities, would enhance the overall vitality of the neighbourhood centre.
There would be no changes to the external appearance of the property.
Members were told the new business would have six staff, including two part-timers.