HUNDREDS of planning applications are submitted each month, forever changing the face of our Merseyside communities.

From posh flats overlooking the River Mersey to takeaways, sandwich shops and new pilates studios, applications are often the subject of vigorous debate within local communities.

Here are nine crucial plans currently taking shape across the Wirral, which have either been submitted or already approved by the council.

Some of them have already been welcomed, with others strongly opposed by neighbours and local activists.

1. Controversial flats plan on Heswall’s busiest road

Plans to build six new flats overlooking one of Heswall’s busiest roads are set to be approved at next week’s planning committee.

The proposals would see the former Clive Watkin estate agent’s office demolished and replaced with six apartments on Rocky Lane. The four two-bed and two three-bed apartments would overlook Telegraph Road.

But the application submitted by LHG Projects is subject to a petition of 25 names, as well as five further objections due to fears over privacy, not enough parking spaces and that it would be “out of keeping” with the area.

Despite those concerns, it’s recommended for approval, with the planning report telling members the development is “high quality” and will be of benefit.

It added: “The proposed development would deliver additional housing and the proposed layout, scale, mass, design and materials would deliver a high quality of contemporary development that would be appropriate in the context and that would enhance the appearance of the plot and street scene.

“Furthermore, it would deliver benefits in relation to neighbouring and occupiers amenity and would provide safe and secure parking and cycle storage and is located in a sustainable location within easy walking distance of goods and services and public transport.”

2. Posh flats overlooking the Mersey

Approved this week, the plan will see a total of 28 “high-quality” apartments built over three floors with views out over the River Mersey.

They’re set to be built on the vacant site of the former Seacombe Ferry Hotel – currently an unofficial car park following its demolition.

The design and access statement submitted alongside the application said the site was “in need of development” to enhance the character of the local area.

3. Pizzas and frozen yoghurt for Wallasey

A Wallasey Village frozen yoghurt and milkshake shop has had plans approved for an extractor canopy at the rear of its shop, meaning it can now install a small oven to serve pizzas.

Yog Time will now be able to serve hot food as well as cold, with the change of use having been granted in December.

4. New dentist to transform rundown former shop

The old Swiftys convenience store in Liscard is set to become a new dental hygienist, if new plans are approved.

The proposals would mean the upper floor, which is currently used as a flat, would become storage for the new practice.

The layout of the building, which is next door to a McColl’s shop on Belvidere Road, would include two rooms for patients as well as an area for staff.

5. Large homes plan for old bathroom showroom

More homes will also be built in place of this former bathroom showroom in New Brighton after plans were approved this week.

Embees’ showrooms and yard on Mount Pleasant Road will be demolished, with nine three-bed homes built in its place.

Submitted by Kent resident David Richardson, work on the development can start as soon as possible, with Embees having closed down in July.

There will be space for off-street parking, with the application having received five objections from nearby residents.

6. Card Factory a step closer

Card Factory is awaiting crucial advertising consent for its new store set to be built at Croft Retail Park in Bromborough.

Once approved, the new store, which will create 10 full-time jobs and sit alongside retail giants such as Argos, Currys PC World, Next and M&S, will be a step closer to opening its doors.

7. Tea and sandwiches for Seacombe

These proposals would see the old hairdressing venue, Her Salon in Seacombe, turned into a tea shop selling sandwiches, and office space.

Submitted on December 19, they would see the building on St Paul’s Road transformed.

8. A new pilates studio

Plans to transform a bathroom shop into a pilates studio have been approved by Wirral council.

The proposals would see Wirral Pilates and Movement Centre on Mill Lane, Liscard replace the old Bath Haus Interiors.

They were approved by the local authority last month, and will see both pilates classes and private sessions held at the venue.

9. A hot food takeaway for Woodchurch

Plans have been submitted to the council to transform this shop unit on Hoole Road, Woodchurch into a hot food takeaway.

It’s not yet known what type of food will be served, but the planning statement submitted with the application said: “The proposed change of use will provide a takeaway for local residents, and a building previously empty will be to use. This would enhance the appearance of the shop units.”