Plan to demolish stables in the Green Belt and replace them with three-storey dwellings

A PLAN to demolish old stables in a Green Belt conservation area and replace them with eight three-storey four and five bedroomed dwellings is set to come before Warrington planning chiefs.

The scheme submitted by Calore Homes Ltd has resulted in strong opposition from local residents and councillors at Thelwall.
It is also stated to be in an area of high risk of flooding.
But planning officers will recommend the scheme at The Livery Stables, Lymm Road, Thelwall be approved when it comes before the borough council’s development management committee on Thursday.
Nine objections have been received from residents and there are objection also from borough councillor Ian Marks and from members of Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council. Two letters of support for the scheme have been received.
The site is in the Thelwall Village Conservation area, a mineral safeguarding area, the Greater Manchester Nature Improvement Area and a Flood Zone.
A report to be considered by councillors states that the 0.5 hectare site consists of a number of large buildings previously used as stabled, an indoor riding arena and an area of hard standing.
It is next to the Grade 2 Listed Old Hall Farmhouse.

The eight proposed dwellings would be arranged around a central courtyard. There would be no living accommodation on the ground floor because of the risk of flooding.
Objectors say the proposed buildings would not be in keeping with the local area and that the scheme represents overdevelopment of the site. The development would worsen existing flooding and drainage issues.
Disposal of foul sewage was unclear and increased traffic on the busy road would create highway safety issues.
There were also concerns about the impact on the adjoining Listed building.
But planning officers say the principle of development is acceptable as the proposals would not represent inappropriate development in the Green Belt and would contribute to the borough’s housing supply. Impacts on the local highway could be managed by conditions.
They recommend the scheme be approved.