Plans submitted to build dozens of homes on social club site

Bellway has submitted an application to Halton Council to bulldoze Moorfield Sports and Social Club’s derelict clubhouse and changing rooms, build 63 two, three and four bedroom homes,  lay new sports pitches and construct a new club house with leisure and changing facilities, 

It would also build a multi-use games area (MUGA), a new car park and make improvements to the existing playing field at Moorfield Primary School.

The firm has been consulting with residents on the scheme since the summer, with a full planning application having been submitted this week.

The derelict Moorfield Sport and Social club would be knocked down (Image: Google)

A design and access statement submitted in support of the plans, said: “The development will result in the creation of a well-informed, attractive neighbourhood, but not overly dominated by the car.

“The development will integrate seamlessly with its surroundings, responding positively to the character of the area. It also includes enhanced and additional sports and playing provision for Moorfield Primary School which will be a benefit for the wider local community.”

The issues surrounding the social club site have proven controversial in the past. The building on Moorfield Road closed in August, 2021 and was bought by the developer two months later. A notice published last year by the company indicating its intention to flatten the building and construct up to 119 new properties met with fierce opposition from some local residents and councillors.

Artist impression of what the new club house would look like. Image from planning docs by Bellway Homes (Image: PR)

Long-standing concerns have also been raised by some local residents about traffic in the area. Bellway said at the time the site had  been the subject of vandalism and anti-social behaviour since its closure.

At its peak, the club hosted a variety of sports clubs ranging from football, rugby league and crown green bowls. It had also been a well-known venue on the town's social scene for more than 50 years. Following its closure, a petition was launched calling for it to be reopened which attracted more than 500 signatures. The latest plans will have to be considered by the councils’ development management committee, but no date has yet been set for a decision.