Cheshire East planners are recommending approval for up to 85 homes in the open countryside at Nantwich, despite acknowledging that the proposed development would cause harm. Barratt David Wilson Homes has applied for outline permission for the dwellings, including 30 per cent affordable housing, along with landscaping, a children's play area, and sustainable urban drainage on 6.39 hectares of agricultural land at London Road.
Housing supply concerns
Cheshire East does not currently have a five-year housing land supply, a significant material consideration that weighs in favour of permitting the development. A report from a council planning officer to next week's meeting of the strategic planning board states: "The proposed development on this site would cause harm." It notes adverse landscape impacts on the character and appearance of the area due to the urbanising effect of the housing within the open countryside, and a minor reduction in the Willaston, Wistaston, Nantwich, Crewe strategic green gap. However, the report adds that these impacts could be appropriately managed and limited by securing appropriate details at the reserved matters stage.
Loss of agricultural land
The development would result in the loss of 'best and most versatile' agricultural land, which weighs against the proposal but needs to be balanced against the prevalence of agricultural land in Cheshire East, according to the report.
Objections from parish council and residents
Stapeley Parish Council has objected to the proposal, citing several reasons including the impact on highways and the loss of agricultural land and natural habitats. Ward councillor John Priest has also raised concerns about highways. Thirteen residents have objected for varying reasons, including loss of open countryside, loss of strategic green gap, and landscape and visual impacts.
Benefits of the scheme
The planning officer's report says there are a range of benefits that weigh in favour of the scheme. It states: "The NPPF (national planning policy framework) attaches great importance to housing delivery that meets the needs which the proposal would help address." The construction of up to 85 homes, including 26 affordable units, is provided substantial weight. The application site is also adjacent to the settlement boundary of Nantwich, which is a key service centre, and will be accessible to all the various services in the area. The development would produce some economic benefits in terms of employment opportunities during the construction phase and direct and indirect benefits associated with additional household expenditure within the local economy.
The strategic planning board meeting takes place at 10.30am on Wednesday, April 29, at Macclesfield Town Hall.
