PROPOSALS that form part of a Port Warrington masterplan have been approved.

Flo Mix UK's planning application to build an industrial building and two silos on vacant land, off Moore Lane, has been passed by the council.

The proposed use of the site – which is adjacent to the entrance of Moore Nature Reserve – is for the mixing and distribution of dry mortar for the construction industry.

The design and access statement says the site will initially be dependent upon the existing road links for the delivery of materials.

However, it adds that it is an 'aspiration' to undertake further development in the future, which will enable materials to be imported via Manchester Ship Canal.

Planning documents confirmed Peel Ports owns the land.

Group planning director Warren Marshall wrote two letters to the authority in support of the application.

He said: "The application site forms part of our wider landholding, which has an authorised use for storage and distribution, and is part of our aspiration to develop a multi-modal Port Warrington.

"There is an existing berth (Acton Grange Wharf), which would enable the utilisation of the Manchester Ship Canal for the sustainable movement of sand and aggregates, thereby reducing the amount of HGV movements that would otherwise occur.

"There is a longer-term plan being promoted for the development of an enlarged multi-modal Port Warrington encompassing increased water freight, the reinstatement of the rail freight connection and improved access as part of the Warrington Western Link.

"All of these matters form part of the Warrington waterfront initiative being progressed between Peel Group and Warrington Council as part of the local plan review."