Large house to make way for development

PLANS to demolish a house to make way for a three-storey apartment block have been approved by Stockport council.

Applicant Consulate Bramhall had been seeking permission to bulldoze the Manor Road property in Bramhall and replace it with six two-bed and two three-bed flats.

The building will be erected in a similar position to neighbouring houses and would provide space for cycle racks and bin storage.

The application was discussed by members of the authority’s planning and highways committee.

Planning officer Suzanne Broomhead advised members that the original plans had changed and the proposed two chimneys removed.

“If the applicant wanted to build the chimneys at a later date, a new planning application would have to be submitted,” she advised.

Coun Laura Booth asked if a note to provide a ramp to the rear of the garden could be attached to the application.

“It would benefit mothers with prams and wheelchair users because then they could easily access the garden,” she said.

“I realise it can’t make it a condition on the application, but an informative advisory note would help.”

Meanwhile Coun Christine Corris asked if the ‘substantial’ hedging could remain as it affords the neighbours ample screening.

Ms Broomhead agreed to the requests.

Coun Wendy Meikle said she was ‘struggling’ to come to terms with the size of the building.

“This is a three-storey building – and I think it’s too much,” she said.

“Also the front garden will be turned into a car park – I can’t support this application.”

However, despite her concerns, members voted to approve the plans.