PLANS to build a housing development have signalled the start of the Winsford Gateway project that will transform the town.

An application has been submitted to Vale Royal Borough Council to build 58 two and three-storey houses and apartments on land off Baker's Lane and 24 two and three-storey houses on land off Church Street.

The development is the first stage of the council's Winsford Gateway project that will change the face of the town.

Councillors believe the area will 'kick start' the regeneration of Winsford and in particular the area around the old High Street.

The Winsford Gateway will also include the Learning Zone and improvements to leisure facilities which many believe will boost the image and appeal of the town.

Town councillor Peter Gannon is pleased at the news but does have some reservations.

He said: "The town is saturated now before these new houses are built so we should not put the cart before the horse. I do like to see new houses being built but I would like the leisure facilities to be in place first."

The council hopes the redevelopment of the old High Street area will bring it closer to the town centre and in line with the overall vision for Winsford.

The full planning application will be discussed at a planning committee tomorrow night.