Local plan scoping consultation

Objection to Development on Green Belt Land

I object strongly to the proposed development of Green Belt land and urge Cheshire East Council to protect these areas from unnecessary and inappropriate development.

The Council’s own New Local Plan consultation recognises that Green Belt land has an important role in preventing unrestricted urban sprawl and, crucially, in preventing neighbouring towns from merging. This is particularly important given the increasing development pressures across Cheshire East and Greater Manchester. Allowing further development risks the gradual erosion of the separation between communities and could ultimately contribute to Cheshire East becoming increasingly joined to the Greater Manchester urban area. Once this separation is lost, it cannot be restored.

Green Belt land also provides valuable habitats for wildlife and supports biodiversity. The Council acknowledges the importance of ecology and biodiversity within the planning process, and environmental impacts must be properly assessed before the new plan is adopted. Wildlife habitats should not be sacrificed simply to accommodate ever-increasing housing targets.

The Council’s consultation also highlights the renewed commitment to prioritising previously developed brownfield land where possible. This should be the starting point before releasing valuable countryside.

We have a responsibility to protect our environment, wildlife and green spaces for future generations, rather than allowing short-term development pressures to permanently change the character of Cheshire East.