Local plan scoping consultation

Comment

Representation ID: 5505

Received: 31/08/2026

Respondent: Peter Hardern

We strongly object to the proposed 291 hectare development across 12 parcels of land at Ashley.

This is high performing Green Belt, not Grey Belt, and it prevents urban sprawl, and maintains the vital countryside gap between Greater Manchester and Cheshire. It also safeguards open productive farmland.

Ashley is a small rural village with limited services. There is no bus network, and train services are limited to an hourly service between Manchester and Chester. The surrounding roads are very narrow, and every approach crosses narrow constrained bridges.

The proposed development is fundamentally unsustainable and would result in severe traffic, infrastructure and drainage pressures.In addition it would damage protected landscapes, wildlife habitats and the settings of numerous listed buildings.

The Council should retain Green Belt protection and reject this proposal entirely.