Plans for 100 new homes likely to be refused amid Jodrell Bank concerns
The application is recommended for refusal.
By Cheshire Live
A plan for up to 101 new homes in Holmes Chapel is expected to be refused by Cheshire East Council over concerns about Jodrell Bank.
The application was submitted by Bridgemount Developments for outline permission on land off London Road, east of the road, on a 3.41-hectare former industrial site. The site is within the consultation zone for Jodrell Bank, which is a designated World Heritage Site.
According to the council planning officer’s report, the University of Manchester has confirmed it opposes the development and says it would impair the efficiency of the Jodrell Bank radio telescope.
Holmes Chapel Parish Council has also objected, saying commercial development would be a more appropriate use for the site and would bring greater benefits to the village and residents. It also raised drainage concerns.
Bespak has objected too, saying the scheme poses a significant risk to its current operations and future expansion. Three residents have objected, while another five people made general observations.
The report says the scheme would deliver economic benefits during construction and once occupied, with up to 101 homes including 30% affordable housing. It also says the site is sustainably located and has access to services and facilities in Holmes Chapel.
Despite that, officers say the adverse impact on Jodrell Bank would not be outweighed by the benefits, and the application is recommended for refusal.
The southern planning committee is due to consider the application at 10am on Wednesday, July 29, at Delamere House in Crewe.