New plans refused to replace Fairfield house destroyed by fire

Plans had been submitted to Warrington Borough Council’s planning department relating to land at 67 Algernon Street in Fairfield.

Permission was sought for a new detached dwelling at the end of a terraced row, but approval has been refused by planners.

The original property on the site was the subject of a large fire in November 2011, which led to the evacuation of residents living in 13 neighbouring homes.

Smoke from the fire leaked through the attics of nearby properties, and the house itself had to be demolished for structural and safety reasons.

The previous property on the plot had to be demolished due to being unsafe

The homeowner was not at home at the time.

Plans to build a two-storey, three-bedroom end terrace home on the plot, on the corner of Algernon Street and Granville Street, were approved by the council in August 2020.

This was to effectively fit the now vacant plot, which is only occupied by weeds and overgrown grass, with an end-of-terrace home.

However, work did not start in the period of time required, meaning fresh planning permission is required.

Plans by applicant JD Architectural stated that this application was for a home not connected to the terraced row.

How the plot looks at present. Picture: Google Maps

In refusing permission, the council said: “The proposed development, by virtue of its positioning and overall form, is considered to be an incongruous addition to the street scene.

“The proposed end of terrace dwellinghouse does not adjoin onto its neighbour, failing to maintain the local character of the street scene on Algernon Street and Granville Street.

“The development fails to sufficiently harmonise well in its local context and with the nearby and adjacent properties.

“It is therefore considered to be of detriment to local character, and owing to this, the proposed development is therefore contrary to planning policy.”