PLANS for new homes in Lymm, including a pedestrian crossing to connect two sections of the Trans Pennine Trail, are due to be discussed next week.

The popular trail, used by pedestrians and cyclists, is split by Rushgreen Road – one of the main roads in the village.

Now a new scheme to build nine low cost homes includes the proposed crossing.

It will be debated at Wednesday's meeting of the development management committee.

Developers Rushgreen Land Holdings has made the proposal, in consultation with Warrington Borough Council highways team.

The application has been recommended for approval by council planners.

Despite being in the green belt, the land in question is formerly industrial, allowing development to take place

A spokesman for the developers said: "The popularity of the trail with walkers and cyclists has grown significantly recently since lockdown measures were introduced by the UK government back in March.

"This latest proposal offers an example of local development incorporating community infrastructure improvements as part of a private scheme.

"The crossing would utilize a build out scheme incorporating traffic calming measures, including street furniture and signage, to minimize risk and benefit trail users."

The plans are for nine new three-bedroom houses specifically aimed at first-time buyers.

However Lymm Parish Council has objected to the scheme, saying a zebra crossing would be preferable to limit impact on traffic.

It said: "Rushgreen Road is already heavy with traffic during morning and evening rush hours.

"Adding a built out crossing facility across Rushgreen Road will cause traffic to stop and lead to a build up of traffic during busy periods and therefore increased air pollution.

"The council therefore recommends an alternative crossing facility that will not slow down and restrict the flow of traffic when there are no pedestrians or cyclists.

" A zebra or pelican crossing would therefore be a preferred option by the parish council.”

n The meeting will take virtually and can be accessed via the council website.