Expansion at fishery a step nearer

From the The Bolton News, first published Monday 27th Aug 2007.

AN angling centre has moved a step closer to getting its expansion plans approved.

Bosses of Curley's Fishery want to rebuild the existing cafe and add another two-storey building to house a tackle shop, classroom, equipment barn, bailiff's office and flat for overnight accommodation.

Concerns had been raised by council officers that the buildings could be turned into homes But owner Steve Kershaw told a meeting of Horwich Town Council he was not a property developer and said the moves were necessary because there had been several attacks on the business.

He said: "If that is not justification for an overnight bailiff I don't know what is."

He added that angling has become part of that school national curriculum and he feels a classroom is appropriate forward planning.

"If there is any doubt from the council that I will turn this into housing all they need to do is put on some conditions," he said.

Six people spoke in support of the development, at Wallsuches Reservoir, near Horwich, saying it would be beneficial to the area.

Bolton Council has also received three letters of objection.

Cllr Peter McGeehan said: "We should encourage and applaud small businesses in Horwich.

"However, I do have some concerns. While Mr Kershaw is dedicated to the business and its success, it will become an attractive buy and if it is sold we need to have some protection against over development."

Councillors voted to support the plans, with conditions against over development.

The application will go before Bolton Council's planning committee next month.

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