Local plan scoping consultation

I formally object to the 291.03-hectare Ashley submission (12sites) in the Cheshire East SHELAA.
Main Points Summary
1. Green Belt Conflict
• Ashley is designated wash over Green Belt, the strongest level of protection.
• The land acts as a strategic buffer preventing South Manchester/Trafford from merging with Cheshire East villages.
• The sites fail the national “Grey Belt” test because they are open, working farmland.
• Development would conflict with key NPPF Green Belt purposes, including preventing sprawl, preventing towns merging, and safeguarding countryside.
2. Unsustainable Settlement Location
• Ashley is a small rural parish with very limited public transport, infrastructure, medical facilities, and employment.
• Large scale development here contradicts the settlement hierarchy, which directs growth to Tier 1 and Tier 2 centres.
3. Highways & Safety Constraints
• The rural road network is narrow and restricted by railway bridges and single lane pinch points.
• It cannot safely accommodate the significant increase in traffic that major development would generate.
4. Aviation Noise & Bird Strike Risk
• The land lies within airport noise contours and bird strike hazard zones, making high density housing unsuitable.
5. Drainage & Utilities Limitations
• The area lacks deep sewer capacity, grid capacity, and surface water drainage.
• There is a high surface water flood risk affecting the River Bollin catchment.
6. Loss of Best & Most Versatile Agricultural Land
• Soil surveys (including HS2 Phase 2b) show the land contains Grade 2 and Subgrade 3a BMV soils, which national policy protects for food security.
7. Environmental & Heritage Harm
• Development would damage:
o Bollin Valley & Parklands LLD
o Rostherne/Tatton Park LLD
o Cotterill Clough Nature Reserve
o Ancient woodlands and wildlife corridors
• It would also harm the setting of 19 Grade II listed buildings, including Ashley Hall.
Overall Conclusion
The document formally requests that the 291.03 hectare area be classified as Unsuitable and Undeliverable in the SHELAA assessment.

Regards
Angela Jacques