Permission in Principle Granted for Up to Nine Homes on Wilmslow Green Belt Site
The decision allows the principle of residential development to be established, although detailed plans will still require separate approval.
By Knutsford Guardian
Cheshire East Council has granted permission in principle for a residential development of up to nine homes on land at Pasturegate in Wilmslow.
The application, submitted by AVS Estates Ltd, relates to a site on the southern side of Alderley Road opposite one of the entrances to The King's School. The land is currently occupied by stables and a horse exercise arena and lies within the Green Belt.
Permission in principle is the first stage of the planning process and establishes whether a site is considered suitable for a specified amount of development. It does not approve the appearance, layout, design, landscaping or access arrangements, all of which must be considered through a separate technical details application before any construction can begin.
Planning documents submitted on behalf of the applicant argue that the site is in a sustainable location, with access to public transport, local services and nearby amenities. The application also states that the land should be regarded as previously developed because it contains existing equestrian facilities, including stables and a ménage, and therefore meets the criteria for so-called "grey belt" land under current planning guidance.
Wilmslow Town Council objected to the proposal, raising concerns that residential development would harm the character of the Lindow Moss area and reduce the openness of the surrounding landscape.
The application forms part of ongoing discussions about how previously developed Green Belt sites should be treated under evolving national planning policy. The concept of grey belt land has become increasingly prominent in planning decisions, with councils being asked to consider whether some lower-quality Green Belt sites could be suitable for carefully planned housing development.
Granting permission in principle does not guarantee that homes will be built. The developer must still submit detailed proposals covering matters such as design, highways, drainage, landscaping, ecology and other technical requirements before Cheshire East Council can decide whether the development should proceed.
The planning application, reference **26/2601/PIP**, remained open for public representations until 12 August, with further planning submissions expected before any final decision on the detailed scheme is made.