Planning chiefs set to decide on proposals to relocate travelling showpeople

Warrington & Co has put forward plans to develop a 'showperson's yard' consisting of five pitches for residential use and storage, on Winwick Road industrial estate, on Athlone Road, as well as a yard with five pitches for residential use and storage on the former abattoir site in Woolston, on New Cut Lane.

A change of use for both pieces of land also forms part of the blueprints.

Each of the pitches at the two sites would contain a static van and an associated touring vehicle.

The Cheshire and Warrington Traveller Team confirmed the family members have lived on their current site, on Foundry Street, for around 20 years.

However, it has been described as 'insufficient in size' and 'inappropriate' due to its location.

In total, 59 letters of objection have been lodged to the council over plans for the Woolston location.

The grounds of objection include concerns over a lack of consultation and the potential impact on the values of property on the lane.

Two planning consultants, acting on behalf of the occupiers of industrial and commercial premises on the New Cut Lane industrial area, have also raised concerns over there being 'no pre-application engagement' with the community.

Three letters of support have been received by the authority, with the site highlighted as the 'ideal location' for the family's needs.

Two letters of objection have been received in relation to the Winwick Road proposal.

One objector believes the land is at 'serious risk' from flooding, with the mitigation proposed labelled as 'inadequate'.

If the applications are approved, acoustic fencing would be installed on both pieces of land to provide 'adequate protection' for residents from noise.

In August 2016, the council withdrew proposals to move the families to Hoyle Street in Bewsey following scores of objections from residents.

The applications are recommended for approval, subject to conditions.