PLANS for a controversial development in Warrington are now 'unlikely' to go ahead, the town's Conservatives say.

In a statement released to the Warrington Guardian, a spokesperson for the Tories said that they 'welcomed' the news that planning officers have recommended that a portion of the town be deleted from the Local Plan.

The inspectors said: "We also maintain our view that the proposed south east Warrington Employment Area and Policy MD6 should be deleted."

This area includes the proposed location for the Six56 development.

Warrington Guardian: Cllr Mark Jervis (Con.) has been opposed to the Six56 plans since they first came to lightCllr Mark Jervis (Con.) has been opposed to the Six56 plans since they first came to light (Image: Council)

Outline proposals for the major employment site, which would be named Six 56 Warrington, submitted by developers Langtree and Panattoni, were approved by the council’s development management committee in March last year.

The application was approved subject to conditions and an S106 obligation, as well as the secretary of state not wishing to intervene.

However, Michael Gove later backtracked and 'called-in' the decision to grant permission to the development, meaning that a formal enquiry into the plans was on the cards.

In a new statement, Warrington's Conservatives say that if the advice from the inspectors is followed, it would make any development in the area - including Six56 - 'extremely unlikely' to go ahead.

Cllr Mark Jervis (Appleton) said ”I am delighted with the Local Plan Inspectors’ decision to delete the south east Warrington Employment Area and thereby protect the Green Belt and rural character in this part of south Warrington."

A large number of residents have stood opposed to the plans since they were submitted to the council.

Cllr Jervis added: "After this significant and long review of the emerging Local Plan, I hope and urge the Planning Inspectorate to take note of its own Inspectors and reject the Six56 application when the Public Inquiry resumes as scheduled in October 2023.

"The Local Plan Inspectors have clearly indicated that this area of Green Belt should be protected.

"Against this background, I cannot see any circumstances which would justify approval of the Six56 application.”