Councillors are due to decide this week whether a three-storey building containing 36 apartments can be built on the site of the former martial arts centre Applicant Built Development plans to build a building of one and two-bedroom apartments on the site of the former Goldings Martial Arts UK Centre of Excellence in St Germain Street, Farnworth.
Gouldings Martial Arts has relocated to the nearby King Street site. The site is almost directly opposite Queensbridge Primary School and Nursery. A design and access report in support of the plans states: “The planning application utilises a plot of land to create 36 apartments.”
“There will be 27 one-bedroom units and nine two-bedroom units. The site is located in a residential area and the design of the apartments will be sensitive to the surrounding environment.”
“The proposal is to create much-needed affordable housing. “If approved, the currently vacant and fire-damaged former martial arts centre and associated smaller buildings would be demolished.
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A planning officer's report, which will be submitted to Bolton Council's planning committee, has recommended approval for the plans. The report states: “This is a wholly previously developed site and is in a sustainable location within the urban area.”
“The principle of residential development on this site is therefore appropriate and compliant with policy. The benefits of providing new housing opportunities, particularly affordable housing, on a previously developed site in a sustainable location are hugely significant.”
The report states the current condition of the site is vacant and poorly maintained, detracting from the character and aesthetic appeal of the area, with the recent fire further deteriorating the appearance.
The report added: “The proposals will bring the whole site together and provide a maintained appearance whilst retaining the main trees. “The council has received letters from 11 properties opposed to the plans, with one in favour.
Opponents' arguments include loss of views and privacy, increased parking problems, concerns about noise and crime, and increased traffic near the school. A decision on the plans is due to be made at the Planning Commission's meeting on Thursday, July 18.
