Planners to take closer look at sites in Speke. (Garston and Halewood Liberal Democrats)

Garston and Halewood Liberal Democrats <info@garstonld.org.uk>

Planners to take closer look at sites in Speke.

February 8, 2006 12:00 AM

Liverpool's planning committee is to visit two sites in Speke for a closer look before coming to a decision on planning applications.

Yesterday's planning meeting (7 Feb) discussed the former Dunlop site in West Speke and the old Speke comprehensive school site on Central Avenue.

Speakers against the plans for West Speke said they were worried about losing open space and about what the area would look like with warehouses visible from houses. They were also worried about extra traffic going to warehouses or offices - and local sports teams were worried about where their games could take place in future.

Councillor Paula Keaveney, who represents Speke and Garston went to the planning committee, spoke in favour of the committee delaying a decision and coming to have a look for themselves. The request for a site visit was also made by some objectors and by the Garston neighbourhood committee.

Says Paula:

"The problem with applications like this is that they are difficult to understand on paper and without knowing the area really well you can't properly imagine what the changes will mean for local people. That's why its important the decision makers get the chance to come out in person and have a look - so I am really pleased that they agreed to this."

The site visit will take place in the next few weeks and will be followed immediately by a planning meeting at the Town Hall for the committee to continue the discussion and make their decision. Members of the public can attend the meeting. Information about planning committee meetings, minutes and agendas is on www.liverpool.gov.uk (councillors/democracy section - then meetings then alphabetical list).