CONTROVERSIAL plans to build up to 19 homes on land at the top of Pepper Street in Lymm have been refused.

The blueprints were rejected after concerns of residents over traffic and loss of green belt land were heard at a development management committee last Wednesday, January 31.

Cllr Anna Fradgley, from Lymm Parish Council, outlined how special circumstances were needed to justify the plans.

She said: “I agree that we desperately need more affordable housing in Lymm but this does not warrant building on green belt land.

“Pepper Street is the largest cul-de-sac in Warrington and serves more than 360 homes, a two-form entry primary school and two childcare nurseries.

“It cannot take any more traffic. The planners need to come and sit on Pepper Street at 3.10pm on a weekday – they should bring a flask and a sandwich, as they won’t be going anywhere.”

These reservations were disputed by Tom Hallet, a planning consultant for the applicant, who said the plans would help to meet the shortfall of available land for housing.

He said: “We do understand the concerns of residents regarding the scheme particularly in terms of highways and traffic however we would highlight that the proposed development would not have a material impact on the surrounding highways network.”

He added: “The replacement of stored caravans with new, well-designed dwellings and landscaping would improve and enhance the existing rough pastures, scattered collection of dilapidated caravans and garages to create a more attractive village boundary.”

During discussions Cllr David Keane (LAB – Penketh and Cuerdley) said ‘he couldn’t see how safety could be preserved’ while Cllr Ian Marks (LD – Lymm North and Thelwall) was surprised to see the first name on the list of consultees was the public toilet on Pepper Street which was located a third of a mile away and removed years ago.