Frodsham observatory plan referred to conservation officer

A FRODSHAM man’s plan to build an astronomical observatory in his garden as been referred to Cheshire West’s conservation officer.
The proposal in Bradley Lane is within the Frodsham (Overton and Five Crosses) Conservation Area.
It would consist of a single-storey, flat-roofed shed with a rolling roof that could be rolled back to provide an uninterrupted view of the heavens,
The proposal would normally be allowed under permitted development rights, but because the site is in a conservation area it requires planning consent.
Planners have been told the observatory would be for the sole use of the applicant to enable him to enjoy his hobby of astronomy and astrophotography.
It would be divided into two rooms, one of which would be heated and from where a telescope and other equipment could be controlled.
The observatory would be situated on a patio in an unused part of the applicant’s garden.
Frodsham Town Council’s planning committee has raised no objection to the scheme but has referred the matter to Cheshire West and Chester’s conservation officer.
Final decision will be made by Cheshire West and Chester’s planning committee.
Pictured: The proposed site for the observatory.