Local plan scoping consultation

I am writing to submit my formal response to the Cheshire East Local Plan Scoping Consultation. My comments specifically target the proposed Site Assessment Methodology (SHELAA framework) and Baseline Information mapping, using Site 4376 (Waterloo Road to Coppice, Poynton) as a critical case study of where the scoping framework must be tightened to ensure a legally sound plan.
The scoping framework and site-selection methodology must be amended to reflect the following absolute constraints:
1. Incorrect Green Belt Classification (National Policy Non-Compliance):
The scoping methodology must enforce strict national compliance safeguards regarding Green Belt land. Site 4376 functions as high-performing, active Green Belt. It does not meet the strict national definitions required to be classified as "Grey Belt," as it is neither previously developed land nor low-value, neglected land. To progress or scope this site for development would be directly contrary to National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG) and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
2. Integration of Local Independent Evidence Base:
The Council’s scoping of environmental and heritage baselines must not rely solely on generic, high-level desktop data. For the area encompassing Site 4376, Poynton Town Council has already commissioned independent, professional technical assessments. These include a comprehensive Heritage Assessment, an Independent Drainage Survey, and a localized Ecology Survey. This independent evidence definitively proves severe drainage deficits, critical ecological impacts (including historic hedgerows and active wildlife corridors), and substantial heritage harm. The scoping framework must mandate that such robust local evidence is integrated into the baseline mapping at Tier 1 to filter out unsustainable allocations.
3. Absolute Constraint Sequencing:
To ensure an efficient and legally robust planning process, the SHELAA methodology should adopt a sequential approach that flags and filters out sites with proven absolute environmental constraints at the earliest possible stage. Progressing Site 4376 past the initial scoping tier—despite independent proof that it is entirely non-developable—runs counter to the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

Finally, the new Local Plan scoping framework must explicitly respect, uphold, and carry forward the spatial protections and environmental designations established within the made Poynton Neighbourhood Plan. Progressing Site 4376 directly undermines several statutory policies within that development plan:
• Policy EGB1 (Green Belt): Site 4376 constitutes high-performing Green Belt that prevents settlement merging and preserves Poynton's distinct identity.
• Policy EGB2 & EGB7 (Biodiversity and Landscape): The independent ecology survey confirms the site features critical wildlife corridors and historic hedgerows protected under these policies.
• Policy HOU11 (Design and Character): The independent Heritage Assessment demonstrates that developing Site 4376 would cause severe, irreversible harm to local heritage assets, directly violating Poynton's historic character protections.
A scoping methodology that fails to cross-reference and screen out sites violating these active Neighbourhood Plan policies at Tier 1 cannot be considered legally sound or robust."

Please acknowledge receipt of this consultation response.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs Katie Ward