NEIGHBOURS have lodged strong opposition to plans to demolish a 18th century and build six homes in its place.
The scheme, that has been submitted to Warrington Borough Council’s planning department, has been branded by one resident as ‘heritage vandalism’.
Permission is sought to dismantle the seven-bedroom 51 Willoughby Close in Callands and construct six newbuilds.
An online sales listing for £750,000 for the property describes it as a ‘dream home’ that is ‘brimming with potential’ and ‘period charm’, and with a ‘garden oasis’.
Planning documents state: “The intention is to provide a new residential scheme of comparable sized dwellings to similar properties in the immediate vicinity.”
They go on to say: “While the original farmhouse may have retained elements of traditional architecture, subsequent modifications, including the installation of UPVC windows, have altered its appearance.
The farm house in question on Willoughby Close in Callands. Picture: Hamlet Signature
“These changes reflect the property's adaptation to modern standards and functional requirements. This in our mind has lessened its heritage value.
“The numerous piecemeal extensions which have been approved over time have lost the original form of the build, which has altered the character so much it no longer offers significant heritage value.”
Seven letters of objection, as well as opposition from Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council and ward councillor Brian Gallagher, who stated his intention to call the application in before the council’s development management committee for determination.
One objector, whose views are shared by others, said: “A beautiful, 18th century farmhouse is in danger of demolition if yet another housing developer is granted permission to develop more unwanted housing in an already congested and over-developed part of Warrington.
“The farmhouse in question is a beacon of our past heritage. The area is without many historic buildings, so this must be protected.
“The access starts with a sharp bend leading to a road with no pavements. Pedestrians in the past have had close shaves because of parked cars and have been given no option than to walk in the centre of the road.
The farm house in question on Willoughby Close in Callands. Picture: Hamlet Signature
“The sheer size of site vehicles having to gain access to the site over what could be many months will cause a great deal of inconvenience to residents and the general public, creating noise and a potential safety risk to pedestrians.
“With hundreds of houses already added to areas around Omega, it seems that developers are looking to squeeze any housing in at any opportunity with no regard to the impact it has on schools, traffic and other public services.
“I know it does not sound like six more houses will make that much difference, but it is the bigger picture that they are now tearing down a historic landmark to cash in at the expense of residents.
“If this development goes ahead, then a little bit of the town’s history goes with it. This is heritage vandalism.”
View the proposals via warrington.gov.uk quoting 2024/00203/OUT.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here