Village protest as homes look likely

The plans for up to 65 homes, public open space and children's play area have been recommended for approval ahead of a meeting next week.

The original application for 85 homes at Weaver Farm, off Cholmondeley Road, in Wrenbury, near Whitchurch was deferred at a previous planning meeting for further discussions.

After talks the applicants, Gladman Developments Ltd, reduced the number of homes from 85 to 65. However the plans have sparked a storm of opposition among residents in the village who fear the scale of the build will be too big and unsustainable.

Wrenbury Parish Council has also objected to the plans and said it would increase the number of homes in Wrenbury by more than a quarter.

It said: "Such a large increase in the village will adversely affect road safety and add to the unique traffic congestion associated with the lift bridge over the adjacent canal. Cholmondeley Road is also particularly narrow in the vicinity of the proposed site entrance. It is far too big and unsustainable."

The village is known to experience traffic build-up at the Grade II listed lift bridge over the canal, which is operated manually.

But the strategic highways manager for Cheshire East Council raised no objection to the plans.

The report said: "There would be few adverse impacts in approving this development and they would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the development."

The council also received 11 letters of objection raising concerns over highway, design, amenity and green issues.

The key issues raised were: loss of open countryside, impact upon nature conservation interests, design and impact upon character of the area, highway safety and impact upon local infrastructure.

In its plans, Gladman said most of the homes would be family homes which would boost local businesses.

A summary by Cheshire East Council said: "The development would provide benefits in terms of affordable housing provision, delivery of housing, country park provision, a play area and significant economic benefits through the provision of employment."

The plans will be discussed at the Cheshire East Council's strategic planning board next Wednesday.