Historic building plan causes a storm

PLANS to convert one of Warrington’s most historic buildings into an exclusive development of state-of-the-art apartments have attracted a barrage of criticism.
The application by Urban Splash Ltd is to convert Grade 2 Listed Bewsey Old Hall into seven apartments and build a further 48 apartments on the site.
Planners are recommending approval subject to conditions when the application is considered by Warrington’s Development Control Committee on Wednesday, June 11.
But there has been a string of objections from neighbours, councillors, and organisations.
Bewsey Old Hall was originally built by William Fitz Almeric le Boteler and it was home to the Lords of Warrington from the 13th Century. It is surrounded by a moat created in the 14th century.
The current three-story building is mostly Jacobean and dates from around 1600 and is believed to be the work of Sir Thomas Ireland. Sir Thomas was knighted at Bewsey in 1617 by King James 1.
The building was developed over the years and a farmhouse and kitchen were added.
The manor house – described as Warrington’s “hidden gem” was lost in a gambling debt 700 years ago by the Boteler family. It is reputed to be haunted and in 1997 a campaign was launched to turn it into a tourist attraction.
Bewsey Old Hall Conservation Project has objected to the proposal saying it offers no public benefit, insufficient parking and the development would prevent future public access and would be “oppressive.”
They say it would be detrimental to the environment and that intensification of use will mean a deterioration of the building. There would be noise disturbance and poor security because of the nature of the development.
Similar concerns were raised by neighbours in 18 letters of objection.
They complained about loss of open space, increased traffic congestion, increased noise and disturbance and a security risk if the existing fencing is lost. Residents also feared loss of privacy, pollution from extra cars and that property values would drop.
Objections were also raised by Great Sankey Parish Council and the owner of the adjacent Malting Public House who was concerned about loss of privacy and the adverse impact on vehicular access for deliveries.
Plans include conversion of the Old Hall and building of new modern design apartment to the north of the hall, together with associated landscaping, car parking, provision of a heritage trail, ranger station and bat roost.
The applicant has agreed to retain some historical features including some existing timber surrounds in windows and to keep records of the existing staircase before it is removed.
Warrington Museum and Archives have asked for a full record of the building prior to redevelopment, to include an architectural and photographic survey. There is also a possibility that podcasts of the hall will be made.
Planners say benefits of the development would include a new ranger station, eight affordable units, an education trail and improved pedestrian access. They say development would be in keeping with the area and it is designed to achieve Eco Homes excellent rating.