Plans for new bus depot in Warrington set to be approved

The scheme would see Warrington's Own Buses relocate its headquarters to land off Dallam Lane to allow it to be closer to the bus station at Golden Square.

The existing depot, close to Wilderspool Causeway, would be demolished and likely to be used for housing if the plans are passed.

They are due to be discussed by councillors at a meeting on Wednesday, starting at 6.30pm.

The three-storey building would be home to around 220 members of staff, similar to the current operation.

Dallam Lane would provide the entry and exit points for buses – Bewsey Road would be for cars – and only used by buses in an emergency.

The current access from Dallam Lane

The main building would include a workshop, offices and storage.

A secondary building to provide bus fuelling and washing facilities according to the plans.

Both proposed buildings could accommodate the height of a double decker bus. Inside the main building, buses can be lifted to assist with their maintenance.

How the building could look

The application has been recommended for approval by council planners.

The demolition of the current depot is part of wider plans for that southern part of the town centre, known as the Southern gateway,

The first project in its wider masterplan, the construction of 160 new homes on the site of Warrington RLFC’s former Wilderspool stadium, was recently granted planning permission.

This latest move, says Langtree group development director Neal Biddle, is the next major step in delivering its proposals, the relocation of the bus depot freeing up a key site.

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The current site

“This is a key site within our masterplan and if permission is granted for the new depot will allow us to bring forward proposals for major civic space and more homes.”

If planning permission is granted the new depot would be complete and operational by the summer of 2021.