Housing plan deferred after road safety concerns

A PLAN to build 17 “affordable” houses on land adjoining the Star Inn at Lymm has been deferred by members of Warrington’s development management committee.
They put off a decision on the proposals after hearing of concerns from local councillors and residents about the scheme put forward by the Clarion Housing Group.
Main opposition to the scheme involved access to the site from Star Lane which, it was claimed, could lead to highway safety problems.
But there was also concern that too many properties were being squeezed onto the site leading to a loss of light and privacy for the occupants of existing bungalows in Turnberry Close.
Cllr Anna Fradgley said she and other members of the parish council supported the principle of affordable housing on the site.
But they had two major concerns. Plat 1 would be modern in design, compared to the historical cottages adjacent and would be higher than the existing bungalow which was to be demolished. It would have an impact on a bungalow in Turnberry Close in that it would deprive it of light and sunlight.
However, the main concern was the exit from the site which was only a few meters from Albany Road and was on the tail end of a blind bend in Star Lane.
While Star Lane had a 20mph speed limit it was rarely adhered to. Cars also parked in the road near the Star Inn, making it difficult for drivers to come out of the development safely.
“Whilst we need housing in Lymm, my concern is the safety of the existing residents and I would ask, on behalf of Lymm Parish Council, that plot 1 be taken out of the plans and the entrance located further up to enable safe exit from the site.”
The committee agreed to her suggestion that the application be deferred until amended plans had been submitted.