PLANS to open a cafe in the former Co-op building in Burtonwood have been approved - despite the objection of residents.

Golds Ice Cream has succeeded in its plans to use the empty building on Mercer Street in the village as a shop and ice cream cafe with hot food sales and an outdoor seating area.

Planners approved the scheme last week.

But the application provoked objections from residents and other business owners complaining about the impact on traffic and other businesses.

One objection said: "The residents of Mercer Street deserve a break from the additional traffic and parking problems similar to those they endured when the Co-op operated from the site."

Another said: "The village already has a very nice cafe and ice cream shop.

Warrington Guardian:

The old Co-op building

"Local people have worked hard to establish their businesses in the village and are at risk of losing out if this goes ahead. The building should be used for something else the village may actually need."

While another spoke of the impact of another cafe on obesity.

"A play centre, stay and play cafe, youth club, gym etc would be a far more appropriate use of the building and in the interests of the local population. Ice cream just encourages obesity," they said.

However the application was approved by council planners.

The cafe will not be allowed to open on Sundays or bank holidays.