A DECISION on plans to transform an Altrincham pub into a family home has been deferred after it was alleged the application had been predetermined.

Trafford Council’s planning committee was scheduled last week to debate the redevelopment of the Bay Malton located in Seamons Road.

However, planning officer Rebecca Coley advised councillors to delay their decision after receiving an anonymous letter, which alleged the outcome of the application had already been decided.

Instead, councillors were asked to show, by raising their hands, that they would enter into any discussion with an open mind.

Every member complied with the request.

However, Cllr Daniel Bunting said it was very unusual for such an allegation to be made against the committee ­— and asked for more details.

In response, Ms Coley said: “Nothing has been alleged against any individual member, but I can’t discuss the contents of the letter in public.

“However, I’m happy to do so in private.”

The officer also advised councillors that a query had arisen relating to the building being listed as having ‘community value’.

“Therefore, legal services have advised that we defer the application until the matter is clarified,” she added.

Plans to develop the site have split the community after 16 residents wrote to the council objecting to the scheme. 

They argued the pub has been the main source of gatherings and entertainment for those living in the area.

“It was a place where people met and socialised,” wrote an objector.

“So many pubs are being demolished and converted into houses ­— and it’s beyond me why anyone would want this one.”

“I fear in time it will be regretted.”

However, the authority received seven letters from residents backing the plans.

Neighbours say they welcome the redevelopment because it will stop the derelict property being continuously vandalised.

“I’m happy to support the renovation of this building, which is dilapidated and has been vandalised over the years,” wrote a resident.

“The return of the public house is just as fanciful idea as hundreds of establishments close each month.”

A planning report stated that last year the authority designated the pub a ‘community asset’, which gave residents to right to purchase the building.

“However, the site was subsequently marketed for buyers as the community was unable to take ownership – and the plot was sold to a private buyer,” the report read.

“Although the loss of this community asset is regrettable, the site was marketed in line with policy and this loss is considered to be acceptable.”