Plans to extend a 63-bedroom care home, which opened in Wilmslow last year, are due to be determined by the Northern Planning Committee next week.
Altrincham-based operator New Care are seeking planning permission for a three-storey extension at Wilmslow Manor Care Centre, located on Handforth Road. The extension, which will provide three additional bedrooms, is to be located on the northern side elevation; fronting the pedestrian path. The proposed extension would match the existing eaves and ridge height of the building and is positioned just north of an existing rendered gable bay, where the existing building has a small recess.
The application was called-in to be determined by the Northern Planning Committee by Cllr Anderson for the following reason: "This development originally for a 69 bedroom care home had previously been reject by the Northern Planning board. it was allowed by the planning inspectorate only if the plans were reduced to a 63 bed care home. This has now been built and this application is to add an extra 3 bedrooms. This is contrary to: a) the planning inspectorates decision b) Appendix C; not enough parking provision."
Fourteen objections were received from local residents and the local MP have objected to the proposal on the grounds that it will create additional parking pressures; impact on the surrounding highways network - namely Handforth Road and Welland Road roundabout; no demonstrated need for additional accommodation; overdevelopment of site; light pollution and adverse safety implications to pedestrians using footpath and play areas adjacent to site.
The planning officer is recommending the plans for approval at the Northern Planning Committee on Wednesday, 22nd March, stating "The proposed extension to the existing building is considered to be acceptable and in the context of the wider implemented scheme. Owing to the proposed extension extending a recessed part of the existing northern side elevation, represents a minor change to the overall visual impact of the wider development. Noting the proposed extension would be off-of the northern side elevation, for reasons set out within this report, the development would not result in any unacceptable adverse impact to neighbouring residential amenity."
Adding "Officers conclude that the proposed development, not proposing to amend the existing parking layout/quantum, would not result in any unacceptable adverse impact to the surrounding highways network from both the perspective of safety or capacity. Accordingly the application is recommended for approval."
The plans can be viewed on the Cheshire East Council website by searching for planning reference 22/4163M.
Photo: The Mayor of Cheshire East Council officially opening Wilmslow Manor care home October 2022.
