A PROTECTED species could soon be given a new home ahead of Winsford Industrial Estate’s £5 million expansion.

Cheshire West and Chester Council and Public Sector PLC were given the green light by planning chiefs to add 31,635sq m of industrial space to the estate last November.

Now, the applicants have submitted plans to support a habitat for great crested newts on land off Clay Lane, in Marton – 5km west of Road One, where a large number of newts currently live.

A report attached to the planning application says: “Great crested newts have been identified in a range of ponds across the Road One site and the wider area.

“There will be losses of two great crested newt breeding ponds and significant losses of good terrestrial habitat under the development proposals.

“Mitigation is therefore required for the Road One development to avoid offences being committed under national and European legislation, and to ensure that the favourable conservation status of the great crested newt population is maintained.”

The report adds that Road One has one of the largest populations of great crested newts across Cheshire West.

Under the proposals, seven ponds will be created at the site – each being more than 200sq m in area.

There would also be 1.8 hectares of woodland and wetland planting, while fencing will prevent public access to the site.

The area is also expected to provide nesting opportunities for a wide range of other species – including bats and birds.

Winsford Industrial Estate’s expansion is set to include 13 new industrial units, plus cafes, retail, a pub, a hotel and a petrol station.

It is hoped that 1,500 jobs will be created as a result of the scheme.