‘I implore the council to demand better of the developer’ – Architects given greenlight to convert eyesore store despite objections – NW Evening Mail

Craig and Meyer Architects based in the town's Duke Street have been given the green light to transform a disused store and workshop into three homes despite an objection form a nearby resident.

Councillors sitting on Barrow Borough Council development control committee heard the Victorian property had been a blight on the area for several years.

Speaking out against the plans, one resident told councillors in a letter: "If restored in a sensitive manner, the building could be a positive addition to the adjoining conservation area, especially as the site has gained a new prominence following the demolition of the former registry office.

"I am happy to see empty buildings brought back into use, but I am very disappointed to see the way this project has been handled.

"I implore the council to demand better of the developer and use this opportunity to do something positive for the towns heritage in a built up environment."

But despite the neighbour's concerns the plans were passed unanimously.

Councillor Anne Burns who represents Hindpool told the meeting she was concerned not enough information was being past to residents about new development projects in the borough.

She said: How are we consulting with the residents on the conversions of buildings? We should be letting people locally know what is going on.

"I am delighted that this building is finally getting done up as residents regularly say to me that it is a mess.

"We need to update residents about what is going to be converted around our town."

Maureen Smith, planning officer replied: We did write to all the residents in the area and put up a site notice. As well as a condition of the construction management plan.

The committee was told the developer will make sensitive improvements to carry out work away from the road to avoid congestion on Coulton street.

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'I implore the council to demand better of the developer' - Architects given greenlight to convert eyesore store despite objections - NW Evening Mail