PLANS to convert a pub into a convenience store have been refused by Warrington Borough Council.

Developers had applied for planning permission to convert the Bells in Bewsey into a retail unit, a proposal that would have involved the partial demolition of the Longshaw Street pub.

While the applicant had previously considered demolishing the pub in order to build a four-storey apartment block on the site, it was instead decided that the existing building should be redeveloped.

The applicant pointed to the vacant pub having a 'history of licensing and anti-social behaviour problems including violence and drug use' as reasons to convert it into a shop.

But dozens of residents objected to the scheme.

In her written objection to the application, Charter Avenue resident Lesley Bibby said: "There are three convenience stores on Longshaw Street and there is also one on Haryngton Avenue, so why the need of another one?

"This is going to cause more traffic in an already busy area.

"Personally, I think it could be put to better use for the community, because we don't have much in the area.

"Give us something we need."

And Warrington Borough Council refused planning permission for the store - which would have included spaces for 14 cars - due to parking issues.

It stated that the proposal 'failed to provide adequate information' that a mooted widened vehicle access onto Crosby Avenue could accommodate a two-way traffic flow.

In its refusal, the council added: "The local planning authority cannot therefore guarantee highway safety should the application be approved."