PLANS to build a block of flats on the former site of a pub have been approved.

Warrington Borough Council has granted planning permission for Zoe Developments Ltd to construct the four-storey building, comprising of 16 one-bedroom apartments, at the junction of Crowe Avenue and Sandy Lane in Orford.

This plot was formerly home to the Cornerhouse pub, which closed in 2007 and has since been demolished.

The submission was first lodged in 2019, shortly after a similar proposal was pulled.

But the latest application attracted objections from residents, with concerns having also been raised by the council.

WBC's highways department expressed worries over the amount of available parking, with 15 spaces having been included in the proposals, as well as access.

Other issues highlighted by members of the community included the development's potential negative impact on property prices, privacy and natural light.

But the council gave its consent for the assisted living scheme – which will be delivered on behalf of Fairhome Group Ltd – on Monday, June 14, after amended drawings were submitted.

Warrington Guardian:

How the development could look

Planning permission for 11 apartments on the site was previously granted in 2010, but this consent has since expired.

Documents submitted as part of the latest application stated: "The overall scale of the development is in-keeping with properties within the surrounding area.

"The layout remains in line with the proposal that was previously approved for apartments in this same plot.

"That project was set out on a similar scale, height and massing as our proposal.

"Materials which have been chosen for the development have been done so as to help the development blend seamlessly with its surroundings whilst still creating a refreshing and contemporary appearance.

"Buildings have been designed to provide a modern style façade with interesting lines and material combinations in order to attract attention to the site.

"The proposal is to create extra care accommodation that will rejuvenate this section of the neighbourhood with the use commensurate with the immediate surrounding area."