CPS Centre: alterations thrown out after 29 objections received

A PLAN for alterations at the CPS Centre, Culcheth has been thrown out by planning chiefs after 29 objections were received.

The proposals at the shopping centre, in Common Lane, involved new windows at first and floor levels and a bin and cycle store on an existing footpath between the car park and the main building.
The objectors, who included Culcheth and Glazebury Parish Council, Croft Parish Council, the borough council’s highways department and three ward councillors, put forward numerous grounds for objection.
These included the location of the storage building in an area used for outdoor seating at a café, anti-social behaviour around the bin store, smells from bins, loss of car parking spaces and the fact that the application appeared to be a precursor for further development on the site.
Planning officers said the bike and b in store would have a detrimental impact on the street scene and character of the area due to its size. It would also be inappropriate given the potential for foul smells and untidy appearance.

There was also insufficient information about the collection and servicing schedule for the proposed bin store and its possible impact on the adjacent highway network.
Applicants Shivat Haminim Capital Ltd argued that the storage building would be of high quality design and would be sited in a discreet position where it would not obstruct pedestrians. It would be partially concealed behind landscaping.
There would be no overlooking issues arising from the new windows as neighbouring properties were not near enough to be impacted.
But the scheme was rejected by officers under delegated powers.
The existing CPS Centre comprises a shopping centre arranged over ground, first, and partial second floor, with hardstanding around it principally used for car parking and servicing. There are also pedestrian walkways and some soft landscaping. The ground floor consists of Sainsbury’s supermarket, seven retail units and a solicitor’s office. At first floor level there are 33 small retail units. The second floor is currently vacant.