Supermarket plan for pub site is thrown out

PLANNING bosses at Warrington  have thrown out the controversial plans for a new supermarket on the site of the landmark Sportsman’s Arms pub at Penketh.
But the decision had nothing to do with the fact that the application came from Danish cut-price retail Netto who – since the plans were drawn up – have pulled out of the UK, closing all their 16 stores.
Members of the borough coun cil’s development management committee were not happy with the scale of the proposed store nor with the proposed parking provision.
They also believed the pub – said to be no longer viable – was an attractive building.
Local people – backed by Penketh Parish Council – had mounted a campaign to save the pub.
The Victorian Society, who described the pub as a “handsome building, an attractive and characterful example of a late nineteenth century public house” also opposed the plan, as did local borough councillors.
Nearly 90 residents opposed the scheme – although 48 supported it.
The pub has successfully been listed as a community asset.. But brewery chiefs said it was no longer viable as a pub and would be closed whether or not the application to demolish it was approved.
Planning officers said the residents of Penketh were currently well served by pubs, with eight within 1.2 miles and one, the Red Lion, immediately opposite. The site was also appropriate for a retail store.
However, they accept it was an attractive , traditional pub which formed part of the area’s history and  made a positive contribution to the local street scene.
If the plan had been approved, another retail firm could have taken over the store.