Retirement housing developer McCarthy and Stone looks set to build 35 apartments on the site of what was once Willaston’s Royal British Legion club after Cheshire West and Chester Council planners indicated the project has their support.
McCarthy and Stone intends to demolish the Legion club, sited off Hooton Road in Willaston. The 1.2-acre site is close to the Willaston Conservation Area.
The proposed 35 apartment scheme has been designed by architect IDP, and has the same number of parking spaces at the front.
The scheme has come up against local opposition – a petition against it bears 80 signatures. The Willaston Residents and Countryside Society has also objected.
Concerns have focused on the likelihood of increased traffic in the area, along with a perceived lack of adequate parking.
However, planning officers have recommended the development for approval when the Council’s planning committee meets on September 4.
Officers say the scale and character of the project is “not out of keeping with the village” and added that there are “sufficient amenities for residents to promote sustainable transport choices and avoid over-reliance on private motor vehicles on a day-to-day basis.”
The planners’ report also stated the re-use of previously developed land was a benefit of the scheme, and went on: “It is not considered that the proposed development would cause significant harm to the social well-being of the local community through the loss of either the bowling green or the club as a whole.”
McCarthy and Stone describe what life will be like in the development as follows: “Each apartment is designed intelligently to make your life easier, and some even have walk-out balconies. Enjoy the peace and calm of your apartment or spend some time socialising with your fellow homeowners in the communal lounge or landscaped gardens. Retiring to this development provides the best of both worlds.”
The application is recommended for approval subject to a Section 106 agreement, which is set to require contributions to off-site affordable housing, off-site open space, and a local health service provision.
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