Controversial plans for up to 130 new homes in the open countryside at Alsager look set to receive approval, despite strong objections from the town council and nearly 120 residents. Cheshire East planners are recommending that the strategic planning board approve the outline application for 6.6 hectares of agricultural land at Manor Farm.
Access and Location
Two vehicular access points will be provided from Hulse Way and William Howell Way. The site adjoins residential properties along Middlefield Way, Tangent Place, Collerick Close, Hulse Way, Emberton Road, Cliff Aucott Crescent, Jackson Close, William Howell Way, and Selbourne Close.
Objections Raised
Alsager Town Council has 'strongly objected' to the proposal, citing multiple reasons for refusal. These include conflict with the Alsager Neighbourhood Plan, which aims to protect the quality of existing landscape and wildlife. The council also raised highways concerns regarding increased congestion, access, and safety issues. Additionally, they noted that the site is currently used for growing winter wheat, leading to the loss of active arable land.
Cheshire East received 119 letters from residents opposing the development. Their concerns include the inability of local schools to cope with population growth, doctors and dentists already operating at capacity, inadequate access points, and the impact on wildlife and habitat loss.
Planning Officer's Report
The officer's report acknowledges that the proposal would result in the loss of open countryside but states: 'This will be an inevitable consequence given the council's housing land supply position.' It describes the application site as 'pleasant agricultural land' but not exceptional in landscape terms.
The proposed development would lead to the loss of two individual trees and part of two groups of trees, all protected by a tree preservation order. However, the report notes that 'the vast majority of the protected trees which are on and adjoin the site would be retained.'
Other Harm Identified
Other harm associated with the development includes the loss of best and most versatile agricultural land and the loss of access to the non-designated heritage asset, Manor Farm.
Benefits of the Proposal
The council's planners highlight that the proposal would provide up to 130 homes, including 30 per cent affordable housing. It would bring economic benefits during both construction and occupation stages. The site is considered sustainably located, with access to services in Alsager, including the town centre and public transport.
The report states: 'The impacts in terms of highways, local infrastructure, ecology, pollution (air quality, contaminated land, lighting), flood risk, archaeology, and amenity can be mitigated or resolved at the reserved matters stage or through the imposition of planning conditions.'
Recommendation and Next Steps
The application is recommended for approval subject to conditions and S106 agreements, which include affordable housing, onsite play provision, and financial contributions towards the NHS, highways, education, public transport, and indoor and outdoor sports.
The strategic planning board meeting will take place at 10.30am on Tuesday, June 9, at Crewe Municipal Buildings.
