WARRINGTON’S Liberal Democrats are calling for a cross-party council group to be set up to establish a set of design principles that are ambitious for new buildings in the town.

The party put forward a motion at the council meeting on Monday, which was supported by opposition councillors but voted out by the ruling Labour group.

Environment and planning spokesman Cllr Ryan Bate said: “We are disappointed that our motion was not passed.

“We wanted to draw on Government guidance for ‘beautiful buildings’, best national and international practice and set up a design panel to advise the Council on architecture, design, heritage and sustainability.

“Our town is changing at a fast pace with changing retail and working patterns, the need to repopulate the town centre and our infrastructure demands. Time Square is a good example of a recent successful development.

“We want to build a reputation for first-class planning and design.

“We want these principles to support tackling the climate emergency and reducing socio-economic inequalities. ‘Right homes in the right places with the right jobs and the right infrastructure’ is the way ahead.

“The concept of ’15 minute’ neighbourhoods is gaining ground. Groups like ‘Our Green Warrington’ are consistently coming up with creative ideas to make our town better.”