PLANS to build a dozen houses on land where a pub once stood have been given permission.

Plans for former Sutton Arms site

Childwall Homes North West Ltd drew up a planning application last year to redevelop a parcel of land located at the southern junction of Sherdley Road and Elephant Lane, Sutton Heath.

The land was formerly the site of the Sutton Arms Public House.

The application sought permission from St Helens Borough Council to build 10 semi-detached two-storey homes and two detached two-storey homes.

All will have associated parking and landscaping.

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The applicant stated in a design statement that following demolition of the Sutton Arms, the site is now a predominately hard standing landscape.

It added that a prior application 11 years ago for the demolition of the public house, removal of temporary accommodation and the erection of 18 homes was approved and that the principle of a residential use development in this location is acceptable.

The Star reported in 2012 how the derelict pub, which was the repeated target of arsonists, leaving it a burned-out shell, had been demolished.

St Helens Star: The derelict pub on fire in 2012The derelict pub on fire in 2012 (Image: St Helens Star)

Permission granted

Recommending the plans for approval, case officer Natasha Ayres said: "The proposed dwellings are provided with adequate internal spaces, outlook as well as private outdoor amenity space".

She added: "It is not considered that the proposed development would result in a loss of privacy or over shadowing for neighbouring residents".

Formal planning permission was granted.