LISA MEAKIN
PLANS to bulldoze a ‘nightmare’ pub to make way for 40 retirement apartments have been approved by Stockport council.
Applicant McCarthy and Stone had been seeking permission to demolish the Royal Oak, on Commercial Road in Hazel Grove, to provide a mix of one and two-bed flats.
Plans also include a communal lobby, lounge, bin store and mobility scooter storage room – in addition to a lift.
The scheme has generated £375,000 of section 106 money from developers that will pay towards a zebra crossing and improvements in Torkington Park.
In addition, two bus stops on Commercial Road will be upgraded and the cash will also support ‘off-site’ affordable housing.
The application was discussed by members of the council’s latest planning committee.
Coun Laura Booth said she was satisfied with the scheme.
“This pub has been an absolute nightmare for the past two years because it’s a dreadful eyesore – and I’m happy to support the plans,” she said.
Coun Christine Corris said she understood concerns about the potential ‘overspill’ of parking on the site.
“Given the fact that it is 40 apartments and 29 car parking spaces,” she said.
“However, let’s not forget that there is a similar building already in the area with much less parking than apartments – and I’ve never seen the car park full.
“I agree that the place is an eyesore at present – and that plans for the place have been going on for two years, which must have been very unpleasant living opposite.
“However, we shouldn’t grant the application just because it will improve what’s there, we should give permission because we like the scheme, which I do. It will be a huge improvement.”