PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have approved outline plans for 1,100 new homes at Omega South despite a warning from a major building company that they are likely to seek to block the scheme by way of judicial review.
Members of the borough council’s development management committee gave the go-ahead after being assured by officers that the scheme was unlikely to have a significant impact on existing traffic problems in the area.
Strong objections had been lodged by nearby residents who claimed the scheme would exacerbate existing problems at congested junctions.
In addition, solicitors acting for Wain Homes Developments Ltd, who have property interests in the area, had written to the council expressing “significant concerns” over the transport implications of the proposed development. They say information being supplied to the council was defective.
The letter stated: “In short it would appear that the transport assessment fails to assess the true impact of the development on the local highway network and, in particular, the effect it will have on the junction of Lingley Green and Liverpool Road, where there are already existing traffic difficulties.”
It claimed queues of 100 vehicles could be expected at the junction of Lingley Green Avenue and Liverpool Road.
The solicitors argue that if the council approved the proposals it would be an “unsound decision” because the full impact of the traffic and highways had not been fully considered.
“In the event of an approval being granted, my clients will have no option but to consider its remedies against the council by means of Judicial Review. This position has been carefully considered.”
The proposals are for 1,100 homes, and a new district centre, with shops, hotel, medical centre, etc.
Other proposals, for 275 homes on the eastern section of Lingley Mere Business Park, were also approved.
