A KNUTSFORD school which closed earlier this year looks set to be demolished and replaced with six homes.

Yorston Lodge Preparatory School closed in the summer because it was no longer financially viable.

A planning application has now been submitted by Modern Unique Developments Ltd to flatten the former school on Bexton Road and build four two-bed homes, one three-bed and a larger property which, the developer says, could be classed as a three or four-bed dwelling.

A design and access statement, submitted by Bayon Architectural Technology Ltd on behalf of the applicant, says when the school closed government figures show it was last recorded operating at below 50 per cent capacity.

The document states: “The existing building has evolved over many years with additions and alterations, not always attractive but functional for its specific use.

“Refurbishment and reuse of such a building would be extremely difficult, the cost would be disproportional and could not compete with efficient, modern, purpose built facilities. Likewise for alternative uses.

“Furthermore, the existing building does not make efficient use of the site therefore refurbishment, reuse or repurposing is not a viable option.”

It says the proposal is for new build, energy efficient dwellings ‘of an appearance suited to this predominately residential area, repurposing an existing site within a highly sustainable area and making a positive and efficient contribution to the housing needs of Cheshire East’.

“The frontage respects the area and neighbouring properties with continuation of building line fronting Bexton Road, heights of neighbouring buildings, materials and architectural styles and features of the local vernacular,” continues the planning document.

“This allows the proposal to assimilate within the street and an improvement over the existing situation.”

Each property will have its own parking.

The application, number 23/4635M, can be viewed on the planning portal on the Cheshire East website.

The closing date for submitting comments is January 3, 2024, and the application is to be determined by a planning officer under delegated authority.