Access ramp and steps at Lymm Heritage Centre, Lymm Heritage Centre Legh Street, Lymm, Lymm

What was proposed

A new level-access ramp, retaining wall and improved stepped approach would provide an alternative to stairs at the heritage centre.

“Description of Development: New level access ramp with retaining wall and improved stepped approach…”

“This application is a full application for a level access ramp including a retaining wall and a replacement of the existing steps with a new stepped access.”

Officer report

The site

The site is on a pedestrianised path within the conservation area and neighbourhood centre, with nearby listed buildings and mixed ownership.

“The application site is located on a pedestrianised path known as Legh Street accessed from the East from Bridgewater Street via an unregistered section of road and on the western site via steps leading down from the Henry Street car park.”

“The Site lies within the Lymm Conservation Area and the Lymm Village Neighbourhood Centre. The closest Listed Buildings are 16 Bridgewater Street, located approximately 22m to the south-east of the site and the Bridgewater Canal Bridgewater Street Aquaduct which is location approximately 33m to the north-east of the site.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

An earlier heritage centre and tourist information office proposal was approved with conditions in 2016.

“Planning Ref: 2015/27109 Description of Development: Full Planning - Proposed change of use from Class D2 to a mixed use D2 Heritage Centre and B1 Tourist Information Office. Installation of new large glazing to front elevation, with existing brick altered to render finish elsewhere on front elevation. Replacement of existing low pitch roof with new slate pitched roof, with parapet wall to front elevation.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because access would improve, the conservation area would not be harmed and the proposal would support the local centre.

“The ramp would provide accessibility for those unable to use stairs which would therefore be an improvement over the current situation. There would be no detrimental impact in terms of residential or visual amenity or harm to the Conservation Area.”

“On balance the proposal would enable more use of the Lymm Heritage Centre and it is recommended that the application is approved.”

Officer report

What people said

Seven public representations supported access for different ages and mobilities, while one objected over an alleged right of way and amenity area.

“The proposal would allow access for all ages and mobilities • The proposal would allow improved access for visitors and volunteers • Proposal would be an enhancement to the village Agenda Item 4 46”

“Used and maintained area of land known as Legh Street as an external amenity space for patrons of the Saddlers Arms for over 20 years and therefore prescriptive easement. • Proposal would obstruct and interfere with established and lawful right of way and use of this area.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Representations were heard in favour of the application.

The committee vote

The committee approved the application with conditions as recommended by officers.

“2025/00981/FUL - Lymm Heritage Centre Legh Street, Lymm, Warrington, WA13 0DA The Director of Place submitted the above application with a recommendation to grant permission subject to conditions. Repr esentations were heard in favour of the application. Resolved; The application was approved with conditions as per the officer recommendation. DM63”

Minutes