THERE was a mixed response to our article about plans to demolish a garage and build three flats in an historic part of Cockermouth which town councillors and the civic trust called to be refused.

While neither the trust or council are opposed to development on the site, they claim the one proposed is out of character and too big.

Waugh Developments Ltd has applied to Allerdale Council for permission to demolish a garage on Wyndham Row, next to Cockermouth Castle, and build three flats.

The civic trust said: “We object to this proposal due to the inappropriate design in what is the oldest part of the conservation area outside of the castle walls.

“We do not, however, object to the site’s development if undertaken sensitively recognising the unique aspects of this location.”

At an online meeting, town councillors called for it to be refused on basis the plans are “out of character and represent overdevelopment in terms of scale”.

Leslie Horrigan said: “How true they, should be building on old sites.”

While David Walker added: “Depends on where the flats will be and how safe they will be from any future flooding?”

John Forster said: “Councillors will refuse that but allow green fields to be built on that were full of wildlife, no money in this for them?”

Stephen Jackson replied: “John exactly! Why is that fine... and this not?

“Should the council not be backing people who want to invest in the area?

“Or is it because they don’t stand to profit from it if they okay it?”