Chorley bungalow build could turn cul-de-sac into scene from The Italian Job, warns councillor

Planning permission was granted for a detached property in a small area of open space at the top of Spring Crescent in Whittle-le-Woods last November.

The applicant now wants to create two homes by constructing a semi-detached bungalow of almost exactly the same overall dimensions.

However, a meeting of Chorley Council’s planning committee heard concern about the potential impact of the additional vehicles which could have to be accommodated as a result of the change.

Spring Crescent resident Barbara Bird told members that the two properties were likely to attract at least four cars in total.

“The turning circle is already problematic when neighbours have visitors, making access in and out – and turning – difficult. The road itself is narrow,” Ms Bird said.

Several committee members expressed similar concerns, with Cllr Alistair Morwood fearing chaotic scenes reminiscent of a classic moment in movie history.

“It’s going to be like The Italian Job going in and out of that hammer head [turning circle],” he said.

Cllr Gordon France also warned that the road was “very tight” for two new households.

However, fellow committee member Martin Boardman said that neighbours might actually be less affected by the revised proposal.

“You could have a three-bedroomed bungalow with significantly more cars than two, very small one-bedroomed [bungalows].

“Ideally, these [properties] are suited to elderly couples or singles.”

The meeting heard that the principle of building on the plot had been established by the previous permission granted last year – and that any concerns about the development being in greenbelt had been overcome at that point. Construction in greenbelt areas is permitted if it can be classed as “infilling” in between already established properties.

Cllr Chris France said that the semi-detached bungalow was essentially the same property as the one which was approved last year and suggested that councillors should give it the go-ahead.

The discussion did persuade some disinclined committee members – including Cllr Morwood – to perform a handbrake turn on the turning circle issue and the application was approved by a majority.