PLANS to develop a large house following the demolition of an existing property have been unanimously approved by St Helens Council's committee.

The application for the site in Eccleston, on Springfield Lane, went before the planning committee at its town hall meeting on Tuesday, March 14.

The scheme also proposes a new front gate with landscaping and associated works.

The committee was recommended to grant planning permission by planning officers subject to conditions.

A report to committee members says the application site relates to a large, detached two storey dwelling located on the southern side of Springfield Lane. The site is bounded by other detached dwellings.

Resident objections

Several objections have been lodged to the council over the application.

One resident said: "We are writing to strongly object to the amended proposed plans for the demolition of 57 Springfield Lane and erection of a new three storey house on the plot".

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They claimed it would have a "negative environmental impact" and that the "proposed new build does not fit in with the existing area".

They added: "The existing building is a major feature of Springfield Lane and it would be a great loss if it was to be demolished and replaced with a three storey building so out of character".

Planning officers find plans 'acceptable'

The report presented to councillors said: “The existing property is a post 1943 development, which has previously been extended.

“The site is rectangular in shape and benefits from a large garden area and driveway to the front of the property, leading to a long rear garden.

“The replacement dwelling has a rectangular shape with a hipped roof. The main section of the dwellinghouse has an eaves height of 5.75 metres and a ridge height of 8.65 metres.

“The dwelling has a modern design with large areas of glazing on the front and rear elevations and flat roof projecting sections from the front and rear.

“There is a recessed balcony proposed at second floor level set within the roofscape of the dwelling.”

Planning officers said that the replacement dwelling would be acceptable in principle on this previously developed site.

They added: “The proposed dwelling would have a modern appearance while referencing other neighbouring properties along Springfield Lane and the sites wider setting. The design of the proposed development would be acceptable.

“There would not be unacceptable amenity impacts, highways impact or impacts to trees, ecology, or drainage on site or in the area.”

Committee members raised no objections to the proposals, and voted unanimously to approve the plans.