Plan to transform old stables into new homes on green belt approved by planners

AMBITIOUS plans to demolish old stables in a Green Belt conservation area and replace them with eight three-storey four and five-bedroomed dwellings at Thelwall, Warrington, have been approved by town planners.

The development submitted by Calore Homes Ltd at The Livery Stables, Lymm Road, Thelwall, had been opposed by some local residents and councillors at Thelwall.

But planning officers recommended that the development be given the green light, subject to conditions and for development to start within three years.
Nine objections had been received from residents and there were also objections from borough councillor Ian Marks and from members of Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council. Two letters of support for the scheme were also received.
The site is in green belt the Thelwall Village Conservation area, a mineral safeguarding area, the Greater Manchester Nature Improvement Area and a Flood Zone.
A report considered by councillors stated that the 0.5 hectare site consists of a number of large buildings previously used as stables, an indoor riding arena and an area of hard standing.
It is next to the Grade 2 Listed Old Hall Farmhouse.

The old stables

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. They also stated that development would exacerbate 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 Warrington Borough Council planning officers said the principle of development was 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.