WORK could be set to begin again on a stalled waterfront apartment scheme in Cheshire.

Planning permission had been granted to Halton-based construction firm EBL Group back in 2015 for an over 55s 'luxury' apartment project on Terrace Road in West Bank, on land previously occupied by the former Cemex factory.

As part of the original project, a 200m waterfront boardwalk was set to be built along the riverbank to complete the Halton section of the Trans Pennine Trail.

But the work was halted in 2019 and progress had stalled.  Now new owners Alderley Group 2019 Ltd - parent company of London-based affordable housing firm Alderley Group - has applied to vary the conditions of the permission with a number of changes. If the alterations are approved by Halton Council's planning department, it would mean work could once again get underway.

The new scheme would see the number of flats reduced from 92 to 91 across two, six-storey apartment blocks.

The proposals also include a ground floor living area which has been increased to provide more space for residents, as well as an outdoor terrace. A kitchen and  bistro area has also been added to the ground floor, along with staff management and meeting rooms. Staff facilities, guest suite and assistant bathing area have also been added to the lower ground floor.

The updated application form, said: “The new owner is required to meet the national space standards for dwellings and also requires some specific amendments to ensure the comfort of residents and allow for the practical management of the site.”

The plans also outline a number of changes to both the inside and outside of the development.

The application form added: "The façade has been simplified by removing all cladding and making the façade entirely brick.

“The windows have been arranged into regular bays with simple brick details around them to break up the monolithic façade and add texture.

“The external staircases to the south of the site has been removed and a retaining wall has been added to allow light in the lower ground level apartments there.”

No date has yet been set for a decision.