Gulliver's World moves into next stage of major developments

The latest plans have been approved by planning chiefs, meaning that developments will move into the next phase.

According to planning documents, the proposals are for a new area of the theme park which will include new chalets and lodges that would allow for residential stays.

The theme park looks set for a major expansion (Image: Gulliver's Theme Park Resorts)

This is the latest in a planning saga that began in 2020 when the original plans were submitted.

These plans were approved, subject to certain conditions, which have now been met, allowing the development to move forward.

The developments are not without controversy, with a number of objections being lodged from residents of the area, candidates for the local council, and conservationists.

A number of these public representations were objecting to the use of green land within Sankey Valley Park, with one saying: "People who live round here will have extra traffic so more pollution.

"So many people love the woods of Sankey Valley park and the last thing we need is to lose even more precious green [space]."

The council has ordered developers that they cannot build more than 67 lodges or chalets (Image: Gulliver's Theme Park Resorts)

Another objection said: "The additional noise from both the proposed camping and caravan sites and the car park will further impact residents and casual users of one of the few green belts the town still has.

"Many local residents are pensioners and are not able to enjoy facilities that are much beyond their doorstep while others such as me and my wife are asthmatic, a health issue exasperated by the exhaust fumes which would accompany the additional traffic.

"A final negative impact would be the destruction of the habitat of the wildlife which is flourishing in this area at present."

The original page for the planning application on the council's online planning portal has over 120 documents included, which range from blueprints of the current plans, to public objections to the plans.

Now the development moves into its next phase, which is expected to be strictly controlled by the measures laid out by the conditions set by the council's planning department.

The developers have been ordered by the council not to exceed building more than 67 lodges or chalets on the land.