Local plan scoping consultation

Comment

Representation ID: 3235

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

I have a general comment that it is impossible to to provide input across so many very important areas. In reality I think it almost certain that the vast majority of people will only be able to comment on a handful of sections.

Comment

Representation ID: 3238

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

My guess is that most people filling in this consultation will be older. I wonder what younger people would say to a vision? This is mine - A place where people have good housing, where they have opportunity to learn and work in jobs where they are valued. A place where we look after our environment, both the urban environment and the natural environment. A place that has a distinctive town centre feel that attracts people with independent shops and businesses, places for entertainment and relaxation and perhaps some housing.

Comment

Representation ID: 3245

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

It takes real courage to start your own business, plus a lot of support. When AstraZeneca closed Alderley Park there was a lot of support available to help people start their own businesses. This was very successful and created either directly or indirectly thousands of new jobs in Cheshire East. I wonder whether Cheshire East might support or at least bring together a hub or network of people that could encourage this type of entrepreneurial approach.

Comment

Representation ID: 3260

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

I have a more detailed reply in the attached document. I would hope that the local council and communities would get excited about and behind repurposing the many unused buildings be they mills, schools, churches or other for housing, businesses and leisure. This would give a unique look and feel to Macclesfield.

Comment

Representation ID: 3265

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

Please see my comments above on identification of sites. Brownfield must be first and there is a lot in Macclesfield. It might be difficult but the rewards in terms of character are immense. Special environments like the lowland peat bog of Danes Moss should not be touched at all. If national policy is forcing the development of Greenbelt or underused Grey belt (whatever that is interpreted to be) then I suggest it needs a separate consultation across all sites with the whole town not just piecemeal site by site.

Comment

Representation ID: 3273

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

My observation is that the vast majority of new housing development in Cheshire East is expensive semi detached and detached housing in large new estates. Perhaps this is the "need" although I think it more likely to reflect developer profit margins. Building to what is actually needed especially for affordable and social housing is essential. Housing is not just about houses! Places to play, shop, work, schools and more need to be a part of these developments. In addition they should be designed to encourage active transport and play not just around the car.

Comment

Representation ID: 3274

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

I'm not sure if this is the right section but I would urge planners to consider energy efficiency in all new plans so solar panels, batteries and heat pumps. This will give homeowners financial benefits as well contributing to the transition to renewables. I would also urge that keeping houses cool in summer is also factored in particularly preventing solar gain from windows. In addition of course if they are properly installed heat pumps can nearly always provide cooling in the summer in addition to heating in the winter. This only requires engineers who understand heat pumps properly.

Comment

Representation ID: 3275

Received: 29/08/2026

Respondent: Mr William Mark Abbott

Progress in Macclesfield town centre is disappointing. The old M&S site is still unused almost 4 years after closing, sitting there like a story of the whole town centre. I am the co-chair of a local co-operative business operating close to the town centre who have given serious consideration to moving to a more prominent and larger location but the rent and business rates are unaffordable. I think perhaps that site above all else could catalyse development by providing a location for local independent businesses, workspaces and much more. How do we make it happen?