Vandals hotspot will see flats go ahead
ABLOCK of over-65s retirement flats looks set to go ahead in Runcorn after an archaeological survey ruled out the supposed presence of a “pet cemetery” on site.
Planning chiefs are due to decide on Monday, August 9, whether to give the green light for developers to construct the block of 35 over-65s retirement apartments on the now-vacant site of the demolished house – dubbed a “hotspot for vandalism and anti-social behaviour”.
Concerns had been raised by some residents over the plans for the Irwell Lane site – including over loss of wildlife and habitat, the three-storey block being “out of character” with the area, lack of parking, and enforcement of the over-65 policy.
One representation also claimed the presence of a “pet cemetery” on site, but this has been ruled out following advice from the Cheshire Archaeology Planning Advisory, which found no evidence of such a facility from historical maps and documents, and aerial imaging.
Some of the six people who commented to Halton Borough Council were supportive of the building plans, which have been recommended for approval, subject to an outstanding Habitat Regulations assessment being provided and securing a payment over the lack of open space on site.
A report published ahead of the upcoming development control committee meeting said the proposed block doesn’t adhere to Halton Council’s Design of Residential Development Supplementary Planning Document,
which says flats must have an appropriate level of outdoor space with an advised amount of 50 square metres per dwelling.
The report’s author added the development would have a “small landscaped amenity and green space to the rear” and balconies on the first two storeys and any residents will be able to use parks in the area.
It said potential solutions such as adding a rooftop garden or more balconies would raise the risk of overlooking other properties, adding that “an appropriate balance has been struck”.
It said: “It is the opinion of the LPA (local planning authority) that an appropriate balance has been struck between selecting the appropriate form of building with an accompanying level of on-site garden space and off-site payment contributions.”
Previous outline planning permission for either 33 flats or 34 flats for over-55s was granted last year.
The report said the derelict house at the site had become a “hotspot for vandalism and anti-social behaviour”, and it was also hit by an arson attack.
The Weekly News understands it was rumoured to have been a drug squat at one point.