PLANS to demolish a ‘landmark’ to make way for new apartments have been approved.

The Sportsman Arms on Warrington Road in Penketh closed back in 2017.

This was despite a lengthy campaign by residents to halt its closure.

Records of the pub date back to 1846 and it is a familiar sight to many, with some residents describing it as a landmark.

Previously, various planning applications, for the likes of a new supermarket and houses, have been submitted to transform the disused site, but none ever went forward.

However, plans submitted last year for the site by developers Churchill Retirement Living have now been approved.

They include the demolition of the Sportsman Arms to make way for 56 apartments as well as a lodge manager's office, and a reception area, as well as communal facilities and guest suites.

It is expected that the development will also include parking areas and landscaping efforts.

Councillor Craig Lenihan for Penketh and Cuerdley confirmed the approval of the plans in a Facebook post.

“There is no indication yet when works will start, but I imagine it will be in coming week,” he said.

You can find more details be searching the council website using the following search number 2022/42736