Empire garage objection based on 'material considerations'

Claim comes from deputy chair of Peel Commissioners

The deputy chairman of Peel Commissioners says the board's objection to plans by Empire Garage to build apartments and townhouses was based on 'material considerations' not just public feeling.

Alan Jones chaired the meeting last night in the absence of Christine Moughtin, where members voted unanimously to oppose the application.

The applicant wants to build a total of 26 flats and five townhouses at sites on Marine Parade, Stanley Road and Cross Street, and demolish the existing showrooms, garage and other buildings.

A public meeting was held earlier in the week to discuss the plans, with over 100 people in attendance, many of whom opposed the scale of the proposed development.

Mr Jones says the board isn't against development at the site per say, but pointed to a number of issues with this application.

These include the 'overpowering' size, inadequate parking provision and a negative affect on a conservation area.

Mr Jones explained how the board arrived at the decision to Local Democracy Reporter Ewan Gawne: