Local plan scoping consultation

Development in Cheshire East should be directed towards locations that already possess the infrastructure, services and transport connectivity required to support sustainable growth. Significant development in High Legh would place disproportionate pressure on limited local infrastructure, result in the loss of Green Belt land and rural character, and may conflict with the objective of creating sustainable communities. High Legh is defined by its rural setting, open views and agricultural landscape. Large-scale development west of West Lane would fundamentally alter the character of the village and create an urbanising effect that would be difficult to reverse.
Lack of infrastructure and local services
Any significant housing allocation must only be considered where there is clear evidence that transport, healthcare, education, drainage and utility infrastructure can accommodate additional demand. We already struggle with frequent power cuts and water outages. High Legh currently lacks much of the infrastructure necessary to support substantial population growth without adversely impacting the existing residents. Our bins are already frequently left unemptied. We have next to no meaningful public transport, meaning an inevitable increase in cars and traffic locally. Nursery places are over-subscribed. It is nearly impossible to register with a local NHS Dentist. The list goes on.
Cumulative impact would be felt across –
• Increased traffic on West Lane and local rural roads.
• Additional pressure on already busy junctions accessing the A50, M56 and surrounding network.
• Higher demand on struggling GP services and schools.
• Increased pressure on drainage, sewerage and utilities infrastructure.
• Additional demand for extremely limited community facilities.
Destruction of green belt land
The fields to the west of West Lane form an important part of the Green Belt and contribute significantly to the openness, rural setting and identity of High Legh. Development would represent a permanent loss of countryside and undermine the purpose of Green Belt designation.
Impact on the Village including traffic and surface water drainage
The proposed development is out of scale relative to the existing settlement pattern. West Lane is in a substantial state of disrepair with numerous potholes and a failing of drainage. The proposed development would increase the risks of flooding or excess surface standing water.
Agricultural Land and Food Security
It is acknowledged that agricultural land should be protected wherever possible. We are living in a period where food security is a genuine concern and therefore brownfield sites must be prioritised ahead of Green Belt or agricultural developments.
Environmental impact and climate change
The lack of readily available public transport and infrastructure means that the development will inevitably lead to more private vehicles, increased traffic and carbon emissions. It will have a negative impact on the environment, as well as removing important biodiversity and habitat for birds, insects and animals.
In summary
We recognise the need for Cheshire East to provide additional housing. However, any future development strategy should prioritise previously developed land, brownfield opportunities and sustainable locations with existing infrastructure.
Cheshire East already has a substantial portfolio of identified brownfiled sites. Within 10 miles of High Legh there are at least three brownfield sites, Memorial House, Knutsford; Alderley Park, Nether Alderley and Chelford Cattle Market, Chelford, with an indicated capacity for over 400 homes.
The fields adjacent to West Lane perform an important Green Belt function, contribute significantly to the rural character of High Legh and are not supported by sufficient transport, healthcare, education or community infrastructure. We therefore request that these areas are not identified for significant housing development within the new Local Plan.