Historic pub in a poor condition with 'unsympathetic extensions' could become something fun for 52 children

Childcare company Beyond the Nest Standish hope to occupy the former pub which has been part-converted into a residential property. The proposed nursery would provide up to 52 spaces for pupils with an age range from birth to four-years-old.

It said that the vacant building is in a poor condition and has had a series of ‘unsympathetic extensions’. A planning statement in support of the project, said: “The site has been identified by the applicant as a suitable location due to the shortage of current nurseries within the immediate vicinity along with the ease of access.

“In addition, Standish is an area identified for continued housing growth and the nursery would play an important role in helping the local authority to meet the growing demand for places.

“The external envelope of the building would be restored in line with regulations for the listed building whilst internally there would be some limited structural changes to create a safe, well set-out nursery facility.”

The report said it is estimated that there would be a need for between eight and 13 staff on site on any given day, depending upon the number of children in attendance.

It added that ‘it is highly unlikely that the nursery would operate at 100 per cent occupancy due to most children attending either one, two or threedays per week due to funding.

The report said the development would improve the setting of the listed building.

It said: “The external appearance of the site detracts from the appearance of the area, with the frontage having some unattractive planters and the reargarden area accommodating concreted hard standing areas and a detached store and garage that adversely affects the setting of the Grade II Listed building.”

Planners at Wigan council will decide on the plans in the coming weeks.