THE site of a closed business premises could be converted to accommodate housing.

Plans have been submitted to Halton Borough Council’s planning department for the former Dutton’s Mower World site, on Chester Road in Daresbury.

The Old Smithy on the site, as the name suggests, was a former blacksmith, before being the home of Dutton’s Mower World since 1969, prior to which was based in Warrington.

The business has expanded over the decades, utilising space and introducing new buildings to the land surrounding The Old Smithy, but it has recently relocated back to Howley in Warrington, having outgrown the Daresbury site.

Plans are for the proposed redevelopment of redundant commercial premises, including the demolition and part conversion of existing buildings to create four dwellings, while retaining two existing apartments.

The existing single-storey former showroom, The Old Smithy, is proposed to be turned into a two-bedroom dormer bungalow with an extension.

Moreover, the former workshop and rear storage outbuildings would be demolished, with the site welcoming three new detached, two-storey, four-bedroom homes on the cleared site, two of which would have their own detached garage.

Plans state: “If approved, the proposal would give rise to four new homes.

“The development proposal is considered to be proactive in securing a new and long-term use for the site, which is now vacant following a need and desire to relocate the existing business.

“With the exception of the existing former showroom, which is proposed to be retained and extended to facilitate its conversion to a new home, all other buildings on the site are to be demolished, with new housing erected in lieu.

“Notwithstanding a lack of interest in the site for ongoing commercial purposes, the proposed residential redevelopment of the site will integrate well with the adjoining land uses, which are almost exclusively residential.

“The three detached, two-storey, four-bedroom homes are well suited to modern day family needs and expectations.

“It is contended that the overall design approach results in a spacious and high-quality, attractive development which, while grounded in a traditional approach drawing on the local vernacular character, integrates contemporary features well to give a modern feel.”

The plans are with the council and will be decided on in due course.