Battle over design

More than 200 concerned residents packed into the All Saints Anglican Church hall for a public meeting last week. Some people had to stand outside by open windows or wait in the foyer.

Developer Richard Beca's company, Aptus Projects Limited, wants to build 20 one-bedroom apartments and two commercial units on the site.

Mr Beca was unavailable for comment.

The site is zoned for business but it's also a heritage zone, which gives housing special protection.

A service station has been there since the 1950s. Petrol is no longer sold, but a mechanic's workshop still operates.

Birkenhead resident Chris Gaskell organised the meeting and circulated leaflets to more than 600 homes in the area.

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