Blackburne Arms pub to be demolished and replaced with flats

The Blackburne Arms, on Orford Green, will be bulldozed and replaced with 63 retirement apartments under an application for planning permission submitted to Warrington Borough Council.

Two two-bedroom bungalows would also be built alongside the 35 one-bedroom units and 28 two-bedroom flats under applicant Land End Developments' scheme.

How the over 55s apartments could look

Planning application documents stated: "The Blackburne Arms is currently still in operation, however public houses of this nature have seen a steady decline over recent years – with many being forced to close.

"We therefore have to consider the long-term viability of the site.

"The area is mainly residential and it is considered that the social impact of the development will be positive through a reduction in noise and potential nuisance associated with the public house, and the opportunity for over 55s to downsize and move in the new development would free up much needed local housing for market sale.

"The development will also benefit members of the adjacent bowling club, providing access to shared communal facilities within the building."

Plans to demolish the Blackburne Arms, which dates back to the 1930s, and build the three-storey block of flats would also see 31 car parking spaces included on the 4,984sq m site.

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Application documents added: "The proposals for the site will provide much needed over 55s, affordable accommodation in a desirable area.

"Whilst conversion of the existing building was considered, it was not deemed viable due to restrictions created in terms of access, site layout and the number of units required to make the scheme financially viable.

"The proposals therefore require full demolition of the existing building to make way for the new development."

A consultation on the plans runs until Friday, May 3.