Villagers claim homes bid has no benefit

Worried villagers have raised fresh concerns about plans to build more than 40 homes on pastures near Whitchurch amid fears of increased traffic and the size of the development.

People in Aston have issued a fresh plea to planning officials to refuse a scheme to create 43 houses under an 'enabling scheme' which would raise funds to repair parts of the nearby grade I-listed Combermere Abbey, which is on English Heritage's at risk register.

Dozens of residents have lodged complaints over the proposed scheme with Cheshire East Council, the planning authority.

It comes after developers Newlyn Homes Limited applied for permission to create the development of 43 homes, five of which would be social housing, west of Sheppenhall Lane, Aston.

Under the plans, the scheme would provide funds to restore part of the north wing of Combermere Abbey, which needs repair. But Aston residents Tony and Elizabeth Gentil, said: "There are no benefits whatsoever for the renovation of Combermere Abbey for anyone living in Aston.

"Combermere Abbey is a private residence with very limited access by the general public.

"The only beneficiaries to the proposed repair and restoration are Sarah Callander-Beckett, her family and heirs and English Heritage, who would be able to shorten their list of properties at risk by one."

Heather Weaver, another villager, said: "The proposed housing estate will result in another car dependent community and an unsustainable development."

She added the development would be better situated on part of the Combermere Abbey estate than in its proposed location.

A design and access statement from agents called for the plan to be supported.