COUNCIL bosses at Warrington have approved a major new planning document which aims to shape the future development of the borough.
The “core strategy issues and options consultation” is the latest stage of Warrington’s Local Development Framework 
(LDF) – a blueprint that will eventually replace the existing Unitary Development Plan.
Members of the borough council’s executive board have approved the document for public consultation purposes.
But Coun Sheila Woodyatt (pictured) told members the report gave her a sense of déjà vu.
She said: “First we had the Local Plan. Then that was replaced by the Unitary Development Plan.
“We have no sooner got that sorted out than here we go again.”
Coun Woodyatt reminded members of the years of planning, consultation and lengthy public inquiries that had already taken place.
“Will there have to be another public inquiry?” she asked.
Director of environment and regeneration Andy Farrall said there would be a “more streamlined” process.
Key issues to be addressed by the core strategy include delivery of housing growth, affordability, sustaining economic success, revitalising the town centre and maintaining the green belt beyond 2021.
In addition it would need to address inequalities, tackle congestion, minimise the causes of climate change and safeguard and enhance environmental assets.
The paper defines a number of areas and strategic sites which it says are the key building blocks of a strategy to shape the future of the borough.
These include the town centre, Omega, older parts of the town, Pell Hall Farm, Chapelford, the Mersey waterfront, land at Appleton Cross, Grappenhall Heys and Pewterspear and suburban areas of the town.
The document will now go out for consultation with community, public and private sector agencies and other interests.
