Job-spinning logistics hub recommended for approval

A huge development on Green Belt land in Warrington has been lined up for approval, potentially creating 4,100 logistics jobs.Developers Langtree and Panattoni have brought forward the plans for the logistics centre on a 242-acre site which lies off two major motorways.Land bounded by junction 20 of the M6 and junction nine of the M56 has been earmarked for the scheme dubbed Six 56 Warrington.The outline application is for the construction of up to more than three million sq ft of gross employment floorspace.The scheme will focus on providing space for logistics companies.The site lies on Green Belt land, with the scheme attracting almost 1,000 letters of objection.Concerns centre around the loss of Green Belt, as well as traffic and transport, drainage and heritage. However an officer’s report set to be considered by Warrington planners, recommended the scheme is approved subject to conditions and a section 106 obligation.The report also noted that the development is “inappropriate” in the Green Belt and would have a “significant impact” on its openness.It said that if members did approve the application, it would need to be referred to the secretary of state for levelling up, housing and communities.The report added there would be a number of benefits to the scheme. This included socio?economic benefits including job creation, economic investment and training and skills.It also said the site is considered to be deliverable and there is an absence of alternatives outside of the Green Belt in Warrington.Warrington Borough Council’s development management committee will discuss the application on Thursday (10 March).