Local plan scoping consultation

As a resident of All areas concerned, I am writing to ensure the scoping of the Local Plan recognises our green belt as a valued part of our community, countryside and environment, and to request that the consultation explicitly considers protecting green spaces, wildlife habitats, farmland and village character while planning housing need with proper regard to infrastructure, schools, healthcare and local roads. I would like the plan to prioritise using suitable brownfield and previously developed land before sacrificing precious countryside, and to set out clear how consultations will influence the plan. I would also like the following matters to be included in the scope of the new Local Plan, its vision, objectives and evidence base.

Housing and affordable homes
Cheshire East needs more homes, including genuinely affordable homes, but that does not mean every greenfield site is suitable. The council should first show how many homes could be provided on brownfield and underused land, in town centres and on existing safeguarded land such as LPS19. It should also consider sensible increases in housing density in places already close to shops, services and public transport. We should be building up in the right places before continuing to build out into the countryside.

Please take these points into account when defining the scope of the new Local Plan and preparing the next consultation stage. I would also welcome a clear account of how consultation responses have influenced the plan.

This response was prepared with the assistance of an AI drafting tool. I have reviewed it and it reflects my own views.