WARRINGTON Borough Council has approved plans to add an extra storey to an under construction apartments development.

Building work on Old Stations Gardens in Latchford is largely complete, resulting in the creation of nearly 200 flats on land bordering the Manchester Ship Canal.

An application lodged with the council in October had sought to construct an extra floor on the block located furthest away from the Cantilever Bridge.

And WBC has now granted planning permission for the scheme.

The nine extra units will bring a total of 198 apartments to the former Beers Timber and Building Supplies yard site.

Many occupants have already moved in, with construction having begun in 2019.

Several members of the public raised concerns over the updated proposals, with Cllrs Karen and Hans Mundry among those who objected due to ‘overdevelopment’.

Submission documents stated: “Every single apartment is assessed to ensure the highest standards of design and the optimum space provision.

“All accommodation is accessible and incorporates a range of design features providing benefits to the residents as well as the wider environment.

“The developer aims to provide excellent high-quality accommodation at affordable rents by providing higher than average space standards, light and airy rooms, a balcony and a highly supportive resident services.”

The council’s consent was granted on Wednesday, December 15.