Local plan scoping consultation

Dear Sir/Madam,

Please note my objection to the inclusion of the land submission around Ashley in the Cheshire East local plan.

The reasons for objection, in summary, are:
1. The parish of Ashley is designated as wash-over green belt - the most protective form of rural green belt classification.
2. The parish acts as a regional strategic buffer - to prevent urban sprawl between Trafford and Cheshire East towns and villages.
3. The land does not satisfy the Grey Belt test - previously developed brownfield land or land that makes a negligible contribution to green belt purposes - this is open,working farmland.
4. The proposal is in direct conflict with core green belt purposes - checking unrestricted sprawl, prevention of towns merging, safeguarding the countryside.
5. Ecological impact on Cotterill Clough nature reserve/SSSI.
6. Loss of best and most versatile farmland.
7. There is a violation of sustainable development principles - growth should be focussed on Tier 1 and Tier 2 urban centres.
8. There is an inadequate rural lane network, with narrow railway bridges, and there will be high forced car dependency because of the inadequacy of the mid-Cheshire rail route.
9. There will be direct harm to local landscape designations and many listed buildings including the Ashley Hall and the Tatton Estate.

Kind Regards

Richard Norton