Extension will improve historic cottage

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have approved changes to a historic cottage in a conservation area – after hearing from local councillors who believe the alterations will actually improve the appearance of the Grade 2 Listed building.
The planning committee has given the go-ahead for the demolition of two-storey rear extensions at Church Cottage West, Church Lane, Grappenhall to make way for new rear extension.
Planning officers had recommended the scheme be refused because it would harm the historic character of the cottage and the appearance of the conservation area.
A similar, earlier proposal had been approved but the new scheme involved aluminium framed bifold doors, fitted with plain glass.
Officers said the principle of demolishing the existing rear extension was not questioned. But they believed the modern, aluminium doors would introduce a large and dominant plain glass area with would compete with and dominate the Listed cottage and harm its appearance and that of the conservation.
Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council supported the new scheme which, they argued, was an improvement on the existing 1980s extension. Local borough councillor Mike Biggin agreed – and so did the planning committee which voted to go against the officers’ advice.