The meeting focused on planning applications, with significant discussions on two major proposals: the siting of two woodland holiday cabins at Alton Forest Lodge and the relocation of a co-op convenience store in Warington.

Woodland Holiday Cabins at Alton Forest Lodge

The application was for the siting of two woodland holiday cabins at the former youth hostel site, now known as Alton Forest Lodge. The proposal included ecological enhancements and was supported by local plan policies encouraging new tourism development in the Churnet Valley master plan area.

Arguments For:

• Tourism Development: The proposal aligns with local plan policies supporting tourism in the Churnet Valley.
• Ecological Enhancements: The scheme includes measures to protect the ecological value of the area.
• Traffic Impact: It was argued that the proposal would not significantly increase traffic compared to the former youth hostel use.

Arguments Against:

• Damage to Ancient Woodland: Objectors, including Mr. John Higgins and Mrs. Diana Gardner, raised concerns about the destruction of ancient woodland due to mountain biking activities associated with the site.
• Traffic and Safety: Councillor James Abberly highlighted the potential traffic issues and the site's remote location, which could lead to increased car use.
• Residential Amenity: Concerns were raised about noise, litter, and antisocial behavior from guests.

Decision:

The committee decided to refuse the application, citing concerns about the impact on ancient woodland and the unsustainable location of the development.

Relocation of Co-op Convenience Store in Warington

The proposal involved relocating the existing co-op store from Washoe Wall Lane to a new site on Ashbank Road, Warington. The new site would provide a larger store with better facilities.

Arguments For:

• Improved Facilities: The new store would offer a larger shopping area and better facilities for customers.
• Sustainable Location: The site is centrally located within the village and close to the existing store.
• Highway Improvements: The proposal includes a new controlled crossing and improvements to the footway network.

Arguments Against:

• Highway Safety: Councillors Ross Ward and Barbara Hughes, along with residents, raised concerns about the safety of the new site, particularly the increased risk for pedestrians crossing the busy A52.
• Traffic Congestion: The proximity to a busy junction and the potential for increased traffic congestion were significant concerns.
• Impact on Greenbelt: The site partially encroaches on the Greenbelt, which was a point of contention.

Decision:

The committee decided to refuse the application, citing concerns about highway safety, the design of the new store, and the impact on the Greenbelt. An informative was added to express the committee's disagreement with the highway authority's assessment.