PROPOSALS to demolish commercial premises and create new replacements have been granted formal approval by the council.

What were the plans?

Plans, submitted last autumn, sought permission from the council for the development at Billinge Veterinary Surgery, at 42-44 Rainford Road, Billinge.

The site is made up of commercial floor space that includes a vets, with a flat above, hairdressers and two garage stores. 

A planning statement, drawn up by PKL Partners Limited on behalf of applicants Tru & Brownlow Pension Funds, said the development will include "demolition of the existing single barbers shop premises and two existing garage/store buildings", followed by the creation "of a detached two storey building to provide replacement and additional Class E floor space".

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It added the proposed development "would result a two-storey building that would give 91m2 internal space so as to provide an open plan area, WC and access to the ground floor, along with two offices to the first floor.

"It is the applicant's intention to use the new floor space connection with the existing Medivet Veterinary Surgery".

'Economic benefits'

The application stated there would be two full-time and two part-time employees following completion.

It added: "Overall, we consider that the proposed development comprises an accessible and well-designed building that closely matches the urban grain of the surrounding area, whilst the proposed use of the building would add to the vitality and viability of the site and its land use allocation in the Billinge Local Centre.

"Economic benefits will be associated with the scheme through employment associated with the erection of the new buildings and renovation.

"Furthermore, we consider that the proposed development would positively contribute towards the sustainability of the area and provide a small contribution towards the borough's housing stock". 

They added: "We consider that the proposals for 42 – 44 Rainford Road site are wholly appropriate and will deliver a range of sustainable economic, social and environmental benefits". 

Traffic concerns

In a report, planning officer Alex Ball acknowledged some residents’ concerns over increased traffic and on-street parking due to the development. but said the development “would be acceptable” and the site would use be made of existing parking facilities.

Plans were recommended for approval in the report.

What the council said

The report stated: “Whilst on site, it was acknowledged that the proposal is located near to a busy roundabout, whilst concerns have been raised by neighbours about the increase in traffic as a result of the development may bring as well as increased on-street parking.

“The site is positioned within Billinge Local Centre and would make use of existing public transportation links, existing car parking facilities provided to the front of the proposed building, and existing parking facilities provided along layby across the road.

"Together with this and the sustainable location, the development would be acceptable”.

Planning permission was granted.

 

 

Plans were formally approved.