A LARGE mixed-use development at Winnington Village has been granted outline planning permission, which would see 160 new homes built.

The plans were approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning committee on March 6, pending an agreement on affordable housing provision, and would also bring 63,500sq ft of commercial space, 11,500sq ft for retail units and a pub.

Despite concerns raised over traffic problems and particularly Winnington Bridge, members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the plans, which will see the industrial units – empty since December – demolished.

Cllr Norman Wright, Conservative member for Marbury, said: “I welcome the development of houses and the improvement of that site, but we have a major problem in that area and that is the traffic.

“We have all heard about the Winnington Bridge chaos that puts considerable strains on the surrounding villages. To have another 160 houses and probably 300 cars per day travelling in that area, I don’t think is right.”

Concerns were also raised about pressures on doctors and schools to provide enough places, but the site was described during the debate as an ‘ideal’ opportunity to provide housing.

Cllr Helen Weltman, Conservative member for Davenham and Moulton, said: “We have got the Northwich transport strategy coming through, and hopefully we will get some more finding from central government and go forward with that.”

The plans were granted outline permission by the committee, which passed authority to planning officers to either grant full permission or bring the matter back to councillors depending on affordable housing negotiations.

The site sits next to Winnington Urban Village, and the proposed development would create a housing extension to include a convenience store and pub as well as ‘light industry’ provision.

A footpath would also link it to Winnington Park County Primary School and Firdale Medical Centre.

Mark Adams, associate development director from applicant FI Real Estate Management, said: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for this site, which provides Winnington Business Park with a new lease of life, befitting both market demand and the need for more housing in the local area.

“We will continue to work closely with the council to reach mutual agreement on the quantum of affordable housing provision.”