High rise Riviera? (From Warrington Guardian)

High rise Riviera?

THE SHEER scale and size of proposed six storey riverside apartment blocks is totally unacceptable, angry residents told planners at a public meeting last week.

They fear the £40m waterside development of a former shipyard in Mersey Road could dwarf their homes and spoil the Old Town's traditional terraced community.

"The design of concrete, glass and wood is simply not in keeping with the area," said Ian Kirkham, of Old Albert Terrace.

"Squeezing 466 high rise apartments into such a small area is inappropriate.

"We hope the developer will see beyond profit levels and amend his designs."

A team of Halton Council planners and highways officers, led by operational director environmental health and planning, Phil Watts, listened to the concerns of anxious residents.

Developers Taylor Woodrow's architectural agents, Calderpeel declined to attend as they felt it would be more appropriate for residents to convey their views to Halton Council.

The council now intends to meet with the developers to discuss points raised by people living beside the proposed apartments.

"It is important to point out that residents are not against the development," stressed Mr Kirkham. "It is the sheer scale and size of the development that is causing so many issues.

"The height of the buildings is still totally unacceptable and shows no consideration for the quality of life of existing residents."