Storm over car sales plan

A PLAN to change the use of a former United Utilities depot at Warrington into a car sales centre has caused a storm of protest.
Ten nearby residents, a parish council and a borough councillor have lodged objections to the scheme on land off Chester Road, Walton.
Neighbours say an existing traffic problem will be made worse – particularly if car transporters are entering and leaving the site.
They believe vehicles turning into the site will cause damage to the retaining wall to the adjacent, Grade 2 Listed Pear Tree Farm.
The residents also fear increase noise, a loss of privacy and security, a loss of green space and damage to wildlife habitats.
Cllr Paul Kennedy has objected on the grounds of increased road safety hazards on a very dangerous section of main road particularly because drivers slowing and stopping to look at cars for sale.
Walton Parish Council says additional traffic will be dangerous, the display of vehicles and associated signage will distract passing motorists, the use of portable buildings is not appropriate on a site that is already a “blot on the landscape” and valuable trees may be felled.
Planning officers point out that the site has not been used intensively for many years and the narrowness of existing access points limits the amount to which it could be used. But they point out it could be used more intensively without any need for planning permission.
They point out that objectors have described the site as a “blot on the landscape” and say they believe the proposal could result in improvements which would not have a detrimental effect on the character of the area.
Officers are recommending the borough council’s development management committee to approve the scheme.