PLANNING chiefs at Warrington are being asked to approve work which Network Rail intend to carry out under powers dating from 1845.
The scheme involves land to the east of Warrington Central Station currently used as a depot and training facility.
Network Rail propose to reconfigure the site and provide replacement units, maintaining the existing use of the site.
The proposal would remain within the boundaries of the site, within Network Rail operational land.
From a town planning perspective, the works are permitted development, having been authorised by the Manchester, Seffield and Lincolnshire Railway Act 1866 which incorporated the Railway Clauses Consolidation Act. 1845.
This gave power to the then railway company and its successors – currently Network Rail – to undertake future works, including all acts necessary for making, maintaining, altering or repairing and using the railway.
Prior approval for the design and siting of the proposed works is necessary – but the council cannot refuse the work unless they are satisfied that the development cannot be carried out elsewhere, or that the design or external appearance of the scheme would not injure the amenity of the neighbourhood.
