PLANNING chiefs have reaffirmed proposals they approved four years ago – for 160 homes on the former Wilderspool Rugby League stadium.
Members of Warrington Borough Council’s development management committee were asked to study the proposals again because of the length of time that has elapsed since their earlier decision.
The council is itself a part applicant because of its involvement with Wire Regeneration who own the site.
Outline plans were approved in February 2019.
Since then discussions have continued between the council and Wire Regeneration have continued, although they have now concluded.
But officers – who still recommended the scheme be approved – believed councillors should consider any changes in local and national planning policies that have occurred since the original decision was made.
The proposals are for 160 houses, of which 20 per cent will be “affordable”. There will also be open space and car parking provision.
The 2.2 hectare site is bounded by a railway line to the north east, by terraced housing in Priory Street and Fletcher Street to the west and by other urban, commercial development to the south.
To the east of the railway line there is an area of established housing in Lord Street, Canterbury Street, York Street, etc.
Overall, planning officers believe the advantages of the scheme outweigh any disadvantages.
There were four objections to the scheme when it was first put forward in 2019, mainly with regard to traffic and parking issues.
Warrington’s last competitive match at the Wilderspool Stadium was in 2003, although the ground was used for training, academy matches, etc until shortly before the stadium was due to be demolished in 2014.
