Dismay over 'huge' riverside buildings (From Warrington Guardian)

Dismay over 'huge' riverside buildings

CONTROVERSY surrounds current outline plans for apartment blocks as high as 10-storeys built on the waterfront in Howley.

As reported in the Warrington Guardian last month, Howley ward councillor Yvonne Fovargue said that the four current outline applications for area could turn Howley into the "jewel in Warrington's crown".

But her fellow Labour councillor Ann Haddow says that residents are dismayed by this glut of plans.

Clr Haddow said: "Residents in the Nora Street area have expressed their dismay at the prospect of 10-storey buildings spoiling the waterfront which is, at present, quite a pleasant and tranquil setting."

She says there are anxieties about the increase in traffic on Farrell Street and the impact on the view of the Parish Church.

She also questions the wisdom of building houses in the flood plain and is worried that the sewage system would not be able to deal with the extra burden.

"The 'jewel in the crown' could be somewhat tarnished," said Clr Haddow and added: "There are many problems associated with this site. They will have to be dealt with properly to satisfy the residents in the area."

Meanwhile, one Howley resident, who asked not to be named, said: "There are new developments springing up all around us at the moment and I don't object to new housing. But the idea of a huge, 10-storey building completely destroying the riverside landscape really worries me."

He added: "This could have a devastating impact on hundreds of people in Howley and I can't believe that any of our councillors would defend it.

"New paths and street lighting will not make up for a looming monstrosity casting a shadow over us."

An exhibition is planned for the New Year, which will allow residents to comment on the proposals.