Planning chiefs were told they needed to 'be brave' as they agreed to delay a decision on a massive new housing estate in Tattenhall.
Proposal Details
West Cheshire and Chester Council's planning committee met this week to discuss proposals by Taylor Wimpey for 110 properties on land at Chester Road, Tattenhall. The scheme had been called in for discussion by ward councillor Mike Jones, who raised concerns including the impact on local roads. Tattenhall Parish Council had also objected, raising issues such as a lack of local infrastructure.
Objections Raised
At the meeting, objector Ian Waddington, parish councillor Iain Keeping, and Cllr Mike Jones all spoke. Mr Waddington said: "The estate would completely obliterate the only remaining view across open countryside from the west side of the village at a sensitive location that typifies Tattenhall's rural character." He added: "It will be the start of urbanization. It is not wanted, and can so easily be avoided."
Ben Edmundson, design and planning manager at Taylor Wimpey North West, told the committee the plans would 'prioritise local people' with a 'strong local connection'. He said: "We've worked closely with the council and statutory consultees through the pre application and planning process to design a residential scheme that is responsive and distinctive to the architectural and landscape qualities of Tattenhall."
Broader Context
There is a broader, ongoing debate within the council about the impact of updated national planning policy, which has essentially 'moved the goalposts' in the borough and states it now has a shortage of planned housing in the coming five years. In recent months, concerns have been raised about the impact of some housing projects, particularly those in rural areas.
Committee Discussion
Committee member Katrina Kerr quizzed officers on what the fallout could be of deferring the plans. She asked: "What's the worst thing that could happen? The Government could override us?" Officers replied that costs could be incurred if the council was overruled. Cllr Kerr added: "The best thing that could happen is that Taylor Wimpey sit down with Tattenhall councillors, the parish council, and come up with a scheme that's a bit closer to what everybody here wants." She concluded: "I'd risk it."
Committee member Gillian Edwards raised concerns over the amount of money via legal agreement the developer had pledged to offset the impact of new homes on health and education in the area. Referring to councillor Kerr's earlier comments, she said: "Life is about risks. I think we just need to be brave." She added: "This is the first but it's not the last we're going to see of these. So I think it's about taking a chance and doing the right thing."
Decision Deferred
There was considerable back and forth throughout the meeting between elected members on the committee and planning officers over how to shape a reason for deferring a decision. They eventually settled on the mix of house sizes being proposed. The committee subsequently voted for deferral, with nine in favour, one against, and one abstention.
