A PARISH councillor has called on the Government to foot the bill for any future planning inquiry into the future of the Peel Hall site at Warrington
Cllr Chris Vobe says the decision by the High Court to declare the most recent inquiry null and void has led many to believe the developers, Satnam Developments Ltd, will pursue another inquiry in the near future.
The Winwick parish councillor says the initial inquiry’s decision was overturned due to failings on the part of the Planning Inspectorate and the Secretary of State.
He said: “The cost of any reconvened planning inquiry must not fall to Warrington taxpayers.
“There was no criticism levelled at Warrington Council, or – most importantly – local residents when the decision to overturn the last planning inquiry was made. The fault lay squarely with the Planning Inspectorate and the Secretary of State.
“It is inconceivable that Warrington taxpayers should have to foot the bill for any future planning inquiry. The money should not be pulled from the council’s already diminished resources.
“As a matter of urgency, the council must seek assurances from HM Government that the cost will fall to them.”
Cllr Vobe said the community would be steadfast in their continued opposition to development on Peel Hall.
“We are ready to stand together once again and make the case against any appeal Satnam tables.”
