Car sales plan is back again

A DEVELOPER has submitted controversial proposals for a car sales outlet at Warrington – only a month after planning chiefs rejected an almost identical application.
The proposed development in Chester Road, Walton is opposed by 10 nearby residents, Walton Parish Council and borough councillor Paul Kennedy.
It involves a change of use of a former United Utilities depot.
The borough’s planning committee originally threw out the scheme, submitted by Furness Rigby Ltd, against the advice of their officers.
Planners say the new application is “very similar” but includes amendments relating to highway safety.
They are still recommending it be approved.
Residents argue that an existing traffic problem would be made worse – particularly if car transporters were entering and leaving the site.
They believe vehicles turning into the site will cause damage to the retaining wall to the adjacent, Grade 2 Listed Pear Tree Farm.
The residents also fear increased noise, a loss of privacy and security, a loss of green space and damage to wildlife habitats.
Cllr Kennedy objects on the grounds of increased road safety hazards on a very dangerous section of main road particularly because of drivers slowing and stopping to look at cars for sale.
Walton Parish Council argue that additional traffic would be dangerous, the display of vehicles and associated signage would distract passing motorists, the use of portable buildings was not appropriate on a site that was already a “blot on the landscape” and valuable trees might be felled.
Planning officers point out that the site has not been used intensively for many years and the narrowness of existing access points limited the amount to which it could be used.
But they point out it could be used more intensively without any need for planning consent.