A DEVELOPER who submitted plans for houses and an apartment block at a former laboratory site has withdrawn them.

The Star previously reported Anwyl Partnerships had exchanged contracts on the former Alfred H Knight offices and laboratory site off Prescot Road, Eccleston Grange.

The site, which sits at more than three acres and was formerly occupied by the metals and minerals business, has been unoccupied for four years.

A planning application was submitted to St Helens Council by Anwyl Partnerships in June seeking permission to create 54 properties at the site.

READ > Parr Baths set for demolition as sports complex plans progress

A design and access statement said the proposed development was for 15 three-bed houses in a series of terraced arrangements; 15 four-bed homes in a semi-detached or terraced arrangement and for 24 two-bed apartments.

The apartment block would be a four-storey building and each house would have two parking spaces.

Plans added: "The overall massing and density have been carefully considered to balance the accommodation need, to maximise the site potential for providing affordable housing throughout and to create an attractive living environment".

One letter of objection had been made against the plans.

Ahead of the plans' submission, Sam Oliver, land director at Anwyl Partnerships said: “We are very much committed to targeting regeneration and investment in the delivery of quality housing in St Helens and this site is a great acquisition for the division.

“The site has been unoccupied for several years and our proposals will seek to repurpose the area for residential use."

A decision notice on the council planning portal has confirmed the application had been withdrawn. A reason for the withdrawal was not given and the applicant was asked to discus any amendments with planning officers if they wish to resubmit.

A note from planning officers to the applicant read: "Further to your recent correspondence, I can confirm that the above application has now been withdrawn.

"If you intend to resubmit the application, I suggest that you first speak to the case officer to discuss amendments or revisions to the proposals".