Controversial plans to convert a long-vacant town centre bank into a nightclub have been given the go-ahead, despite fears over noise and ‘loutish behaviour’. Rochdale council’s planning committee last month refused to make a decision on proposals for the old Royal Bank of Scotland, in Middleton, until the applicant had the ‘decency’ to appear before them
But they have now approved the scheme - despite a similar scheme being rejected two years ago due to a history of trouble in the area - after an agent answered the panel’s questions at its latest meeting. The decision was in line with the planning officer’s recommendation, which said bringing the Market Place building back into use would ‘contribute to the vitality’ of the town centre.
It came despite Coun Peter Winkler - speaking in a personal capacity as the owner of a nearby printing shop - reiterating his concerns over the proximity of homes and businesses and the potential for noise disturbance and ‘loutish behaviour’. He said: “As you are aware from the previous planning meeting, we objected in terms of the proposed usage would create intrusive late night activity in what is a semi-residential area, which is generally quite inactive after about 11pm.
READ MORE : Council leader hits back at claims he used position to 'orchestrate' demise of market company
“The proposed usage may cause anti-social behaviour and detract from a feeling of safety and living standards of the residents in the immediate proximity.” His mother Patricia Winker, who has lived above his shop for more than 25 years, told the panel she was distressed at the prospect of a nightclub opening at the building.
