PLANS for a new bar in Culcheth look set for approval despite fears over noise and anti-social behaviour.

Barry and Jane Tuffs’ proposal to change the use of the premises, on Lodge Drive, from retail to a drinking establishment selling alcohol, along with use as a café, will come before the development management committee on Wednesday.

It is a single storey retail unit located in Culcheth village neighbourhood centre.

The applicant’s intention is to operate as a café/restaurant during the day, with evenings and weekends focusing on operating as a bar with a small range of cold food available for purchase.

Opening hours would be Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 11.30pm, and Sundays and bank holidays, from 10am to 10pm.

But Culcheth and Glazebury Parish Council has objected over residential amenity as a result of increased noise and disturbance, anti-social behaviour and inadequate parking provision.

Seven objections have also been submitted from residents on grounds including residential amenity, increased noise and the closing time of 11.30pm being too late.

But council officers are recommending the scheme be approved, subject to conditions.

In a statement, they said: “It is acknowledged that the proposed change in use may lead to an increase in refuse and recycling associated with the bar, however, the present storage and refuse areas for the unit, which are accessed by a small service road, off Ellesmere Road, are sufficient for the proposed use.

“The site is in Culcheth neighbourhood centre and the proposal is an appropriate use which is consistent with the nature and function of the centre.

“It is also in a sustainable location, accessible by public transport, walking and cycling with the availability of sufficient public car parking immediately to the front of the site and close by.

“The proposal would not have a detrimental impact upon the amenities of any adjoining occupiers.”