PLANS have been drawn up for a canopy and glazed veranda to replace an “inappropriate” structure erected at a Stockton Heath restaurant during the pandemic.
The proposals at Al La Turke in Victoria Square is being studied by Warrington Borough Council planning officers.
Situated in a conservation area, the building is locally listed.
A report submitted to planners states that the former owners of Al La Turke had to think fast during the Covid 19 pandemic and quickly constructed the present, inappropriate canopy structure to keep the business afloat. There was no time to submit a planning application to be fully assessed.
It was quite clear the structure was inappropriate and this was explained to the new owners.
The new proposals seek to remove the inappropriate structure and introduce a totally new structure that looks to enhance the conservation area setting. Its use would remain the same, forming an external dining and drinking area serving not only the restaurant but the community of Stockton Heath and further afield.
Since the pandemic, it is the preference of people to sit in well ventilated spaces that feel less enclosed and claustrophobic. This is the case not just in Stockton Heath but nationally.
The proposals would ensure a key drinking and dining destination in south Warrington would not be lost and would continue to help the local economy thrive.
