To be blunt, there's already attempts to convert the Wharf building in the form of The Wharf Marple Project, and according to their Facebook page they're over a third of a way there for funding
Answer; Though the plan to convert the Warehouse for community use is a very laudable proposal it is part of a Planning Application whereby the Wharf will be eclipsed by high density housing.
Let's be blunt. It's put your money where your mouth is time. If you want that facility invest and make it happen. If enough people do, then it will most likely happen.
Answer: If this Planning Application is successful we will be denied for ever more the opportunity to develop the Wharf for the benefit of Marple residents, no matter how much funding may become available in the future.
Me? I'm skeptical that there's the demand/need for conversion to a heritage centre/cafe that needs to be satisfied. But others feel differently, so good luck to them. If they can raise the money and make it happen, that's fine by me. And if they prove me wrong, even better.
Answer: I genuinely hope these answers help curb your scepticism. See also the information offered below.
But if they don't succeed, what's going to happen to that building? I've said it before here and I'll say it again. Attempting to block redevelopment at a planning level on the basis of "it could be used for" would be simply bonkers. If the community can't raise the funds to open it up, then why would anyone else do it? In such a situation, trying to block redevelopment would simply mean the building sits there rotting away.
Answer: No one wishes to save the Warehouse more than I do, but I'm very concerned about the irreversible consequences of this Planning Application.
As for facilities for boaters? What facilities do you want? And is there a demand/need from boaters for such facilities? It's easy to say "we need this?" but I'd like evidence. I'd like data please.
Answer: Boat movements currently approach six boats per hour in each direction (but not at present as the canal is closed at Bollington). Nationwide, CRT offer Boater Facilities (Drinking Water, Rubbish & Sewerage Disposal) at one day sailing intervals. Marple Facilities lie between Fairfield (East Manchester) and Bosley (South of Macclesfield).
Parking spaces for users? Which users? How many of them can't walk from the sizeable car parks already located in Marple? If you're talking users of New Horizons, then be specific. I can't see many people supporting general parking there myself.
Answer: On many Mornings, walking groups of 20+ who cross Bridge 1 headed for the hills would welcome a cafe & parking nearby. Seven new houses would force New Horizons passengers (many of whom are disadvantaged) to 'trudge' 75 metres along towpath hopefully avoiding boater hoses in the process. Still sceptical?!
Note from Admin: I've attempted to unravel the answers from the original comments here, I hope I've got it right. You can't just type your answers in the middle of a quote otherwise it is almost impossible for people reading it to figure out what is quote and what is reply.