Plans will improve town, say developers (From Warrington Guardian)

Plans will improve town, say developers

WINSFORD developers who have put forward ambitious plans to transform parts of Weaver Street have spoken out in a bid to allay residents' fears.

Waldron Homes want to build 22 houses and 16 flats at the derelict Save petrol station and Court and Walker garage on Weaver Street, but some residents fear that too much new housing could detract from their quality of life.

Bill Richards, who lives on Weaver Street, said: "The problem is the amount of traffic it's going to put on the roads - it is going to be absolute chaos.

"People already use Weaver Street as a diversion when the High Street is clogged up because they know it is a shortcut to the top of town. It's very dangerous.

"It is hard enough to get around the Winsford Bridge roundabout in the morning. When there are another 60 to 100 cars from these new houses and flats it will be bedlam."

But developer Jason Waldron and his business partner Richard Barnes say their company is committed to improving the visual aspect of Weaver Street and have received positive feedback from other residents living there.

Mr Barnes said: "It will create a lot less traffic than a working petrol station would and all the parking will be on-site and not on the street. If any residents have concerns they are welcome to come and see us at our offices at 98 Weaver Street."

And Mr Waldron added: "We are accredited landlords and work very closely with Vale Royal Borough Council regarding the housing situation.

"We are going to spend a lot of money on this development and we think the value of the other houses will increase on Weaver Street."

The company intends to withdraw outline planning applications submitted earlier to the borough council, before submitting a comprehensive plan in around three weeks' time.

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk