PLANNING chiefs have given the green light to 37 new retirement apartments on the site of an old medical centre in Widnes.

The proposals by Sep Land and Development were rubber-stamped at a meeting of Halton Borough Council’s development control committee on Monday evening.

The scheme will involve the demolition of the former Upton Medical Centre in Bechers – a building which was subsequently used as a place of worship – and the construction of three-storey complex of 37, one and two bedroom retirement apartments for the over 55s, along with car and cycle parking.

Addressing the board, planning agent Steven Grimster, said: “The one and two bedroom units will be of affordable tenure and affordable rent for people aged 55 and over, this can be restricted by way of planning condition.

Artist impression of new retirement development at Bechers, Widnes, on site of old Upton Medical Centre. Photo credit Baldwin Design Consultancy Ltd.

Artist impression of new retirement development at Bechers, Widnes, on site of old Upton Medical Centre. Photo credit Baldwin Design Consultancy Ltd.

“It is proposed that the housing development will be operated by Housing 21. As a not-for-profit specialist provider, they are one of the largest developers in specialist housing across the country, this includes other schemes they have managed and operated in Halton.”

At the meeting, some councillors raised concerns over the height of proposed fencing due to the nearby proximity of a basketball court and the possible disruption it could cause to future residents.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Alan Lowe said: “We had this once before in Runcorn, they started making complaints about the ball coming over the fence. That cost the area forum [money] to raise the fence.”

Cllr Dave Thompson added: “When I saw the plans, I think it’s very obvious that at some point you can see issues with the ball court being there.

“You can see people moving in there and the fact is, ball courts can be open for all hours. You can see issues there in the future.”

But planning officers said concerns about the ball court would be mitigated by the fact it would be facing non-inhabited rooms, and said money could be available for other possible mitigation measures in the future.