Householders battle to prevent apartment block development (From Wirral Globe)

Householders battle to prevent apartment block development

11:59am Wednesday 16th January 2013 in News By Stephanie Cureton

WIRRAL residents are fighting to stop a new apartment block from being built in their neighbourhood.

Councillors are set to give their seal of approval to proposals to convert the former Rainbow House Day Nursery in Rockybank Road, Tranmere into new flats.

The scheme would feature eight self-contained apartments and the applicant says the building is “steadily falling into decline as a result of neglect.”

However 51 local householders have opposed the plans while a 477-signature petition has also been submitted in a bid to halt them.

Among the reasons for objection are that the project would bring increased noise and traffic and that the number of flats in Devonshire Park is reaching a “dangerous tipping point.”

They also say it would “damage the character of the area” and suggest the building should be used for the community instead, such as a youth club.

According to planning documents, a similar application was refused almost two years ago and residents believe it should not be looked at again due to the cost of reassessing it.

However planning officers have recommended the proposals for approval, stating that it will “regenerate” the area and blend in with the surrounding area.

Wirral’s planning committee will review the proposal next Tuesday, January 22.