A HOUSING developer has been given permission to continue with its plans in Walton after demolishing a historically important building in the village.

The Ship Inn in Chester Road was set to form part of a bigger scheme by Elan Homes with the former pub and its outbuilding converted into apartments.

But the building, which was more recently used as an Indian restaurant, was structurally damaged and partially collapsed in September 2015.

The Ship Inn was considered an important part of Walton's heritage and was on a list of locally important buildings.

But in a report prepared for Warrington Borough Council's development management committee, Walton Parish Council felt that 'professional disregard' was shown for the original building.

Due to the Ship Inn's collapse, Elan Homes had to bring the plans back before the council to create a new building on the same site.

Cllr Robert Hardie, chairman for Walton Parish Council, said the old pub added to the ambience of the area and that Elan Homes' actions risked degrading the street scene.

He added: "The developer has taken an easier and possibly more lucrative approach to the development and I ask that the application be refused."

But the committee members unanimously voted in favour of Elan Homes' revised plans. Councillors were in general agreement that the new building reflected the character of the pub.

Cllr Sheila Woodyatt, ward member for Lymm, said: "The proposed building is so similar to the original that I don't have a problem with it."

Cllr Judith Wheeler, ward member for Appleton, also asked for the Ship Inn name to be incorporated into the scheme so it would not be forgotten.

She added: "It was quite an iconic building and otherwise in 10 years time no one will know the Ship Inn was there."