THE site of a former popular social club will be redeveloped into apartments.

As the Warrington Guardian revealed last summer, the former Richmonds Social Club in Latchford closed following a steady decline in recent years.

The land off Richmond Street was owned by Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, but they confirmed that this was sold in May 2019 to an unnamed buyer.

Now a planning application has been approved by Warrington Borough Council to turn the site into a part two storey and three storey building.

It will be made up of 40 apartments for people aged 55 and over.

Warrington Guardian:

How the scheme could look

Planning documents say: “Richmonds Social Club is now closed and lies vacant following a steady decline over recent years, being forced to close due to the reasons listed below, we therefore have to consider the long-term viability of the site.

  •  Social change and increased competition
  •  Increased taxes on alcohol
  •  The smoking ban, introduced in 2007
  •  Discounted alcohol sales in supermarkets and a rise in drinking at home

“The area is mainly residential, and it is considered the social impact of the development will be positive through a reduction in noise and potential nuisance associated with the former social club.

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“With the opportunity for over 55s to down size and move into a new development, it shall help to free up much needed local housing for market sale. The development shall potentially help sustain the adjacent bowling club.”

A number of objections were raised from residents in the area worried about the height of the development and the location of the buildings on the site.

However the scheme was approved by planning officers.