Cherry Tree To Blossom

MAJOR £4m proposals to revitalise shopping facilities in Liscard were finally given the green light by planners last week.

A decision on plans for a two-storey extension to the Cherry Tree Centre, including a car park and seven retail units, had been deferred to allow minor changes to be made to the design.

Residents living on Mill Lane and in Liscard House had expressed concerns about security, anti-social behaviour and the additional noise and pollution that would be generated by the development.

The changes that have now been agreed are: A service area adjacent to Liscard House will have a separate entrance and exit, reducing the need for vehicles to carry out manoeuvres and minimising noise.

There will be no exit on to Mill Lane. A proposed entrance from St Albans Road has now also been altered to include an entrance and exit. It is anticipated that this will reduce some traffic movements along Mill Lane.

The entrance and exit to the car park will only be open when the car park and shopping centre are open to the public.

When closed the openings will be covered with full-height gates.

Planning chairman Cllr John Cocker said: "Those who live on Mill Lane are concerned that there are going to be problems with safety and security.

"They are also worried about pollution. They believe this will cause a lot more traffic, especially if lorries are on Mill Lane waiting to go in and make a delivery.

"Their own parking facilities are also a concern.

"However I think the work that has been done has gone a long way towards resolving those concerns."

Regular meetings between residents and management are planned to address other issues that may arise in the future.

Liscard councillor Dave Hawkins said: "We have agreed to set up meetings between the residents of Liscard House, other resident groups and the management of the Cherry Tree Centre.

"These meetings will be chaired by myself as a local councillor for the area.

"Let's now hope that we can see Liscard town centre prosper and improve life for residents and shoppers alike."