Local plan scoping consultation

I strongly object to the potential allocation of land at Marsh Green Road, Sandbach/Elworth, for future housing development.
I recognise that Cheshire East has a significant housing requirement and that new homes need to be provided. However, housing numbers should not take priority over whether an individual site is genuinely suitable, sustainable and capable of being supported by the necessary infrastructure.
There are several significant reasons why Marsh Green Road should not be allocated.
Highways and congestion: Marsh Green Road is a narrow, constrained road and previous Cheshire East consultation material has already recorded concerns about congestion when leaving the road, increased traffic, pollution and the capacity of the surrounding highway network. The impact of any new development must be assessed cumulatively alongside existing and proposed development around Sandbach and Elworth, rather than considering this site in isolation.
Infrastructure: Additional housing will place further pressure on schools, GP and healthcare services, drainage, sewerage, utilities, roads, public transport and community facilities. The Council should demonstrate that sufficient infrastructure capacity exists, or that necessary improvements are genuinely deliverable and funded, before allocating this site.
Previous planning decisions: This location has already been considered for housing. Previous proposals for 30 dwellings were refused, including on the basis of the loss of Open Countryside and Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. Cheshire East should explain what has materially changed since those decisions that now makes this location appropriate for strategic housing allocation.
Agricultural land: The loss of productive agricultural land should be given proper consideration, particularly when alternative sites may exist on previously developed or less environmentally sensitive land.
Wildlife and biodiversity: Development would result in the loss and fragmentation of open land, field boundaries and habitat. The Council should undertake a robust assessment of biodiversity, hedgerows, wildlife movement and habitat connectivity before considering the site suitable for allocation. Biodiversity Net Gain should not be used as a justification for destroying existing habitats where more suitable development locations may be available.
Settlement separation and landscape: The open land around Marsh Green Road contributes to the distinction between Elworth and Sandbach. Previous Council evidence has recognised the importance of this area as green space separating the settlements. The cumulative effect of further development needs to be considered, rather than allowing the gradual erosion of the remaining countryside through individual developments.
I therefore ask Cheshire East Council to exclude land at Marsh Green Road from housing allocation unless and until it can demonstrate through robust, published evidence that:
• the highway network can safely accommodate the additional traffic;
• the cumulative impact of development in Sandbach and Elworth has been properly assessed;
• schools, healthcare, drainage, sewerage, utilities and other infrastructure have adequate capacity;
• the site is genuinely accessible by walking, cycling and public transport;
• the ecological and biodiversity impacts have been properly assessed;
• the agricultural land value has been properly established; and
• there is a compelling planning justification for developing this site rather than using more sustainable alternatives.
I am not objecting simply because I do not want houses near me. I am asking Cheshire East Council to select housing sites based on evidence, infrastructure capacity, sustainability and environmental impact. On those grounds, I do not believe Marsh Green Road is an appropriate location for housing allocation.