PLANNING chiefs have given the green light for up to 617 homes, shops, a hotel and a care facility on a 24-hectare site at Omega, Warrington.
The scheme came before the borough council’s development management committee as it represents a departure from the town’s development plan which originally earmarked the land for employment purposes.
Councillors approved the scheme after being told the original proposal for office development was now thought unlikely to materialise.
But, while expressing serious concerns over likely traffic implications, the committee decided not to object to plans for warehousing, offices and car parking on adjoining land which falls within the borough of St Helens.
Although councillors have agreed to the outline plan for the 24-hectare site within Warrington, the final decision will be up to the Secretary of State.
The committee was told the wider Omega area benefits from good walking and cycling infrastructure provided as the area has developed and the proposal will offer the opportunity to provide appropriate connections at the main access points.
The 35 acre public open space that has been created as part of the Omega development, and which is known as the “Green Heart” forms the western boundary of the application site.
In addition to shops, the hotel and care facility, the proposal envisages food and drink uses and a non-residential institution.
Officers said an existing planning approval for 317 homes means the scheme represents an increase of only 300 homes.
Three objections were received – including one from St Helens Borough Council.
