Comment

Representation ID: 8365

Received: 25/08/2025

Respondent: Ian Coverdale

SS31
I&O_8856
Please find below my comments / objections on the proposal Cheshire West and Chester Local Plan specifically to Davenham.  In summary:  - Contrary to highway safety - Contrary to stated policy - Detrimental to public interest - Lack of services/utilities - Other or non-specific reason In Detail: - NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network, particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, Jack Lane and London Road suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. There is already a problem with lack of parking spaces for the local shops where there is regular congestion. Pedestrians often take their life in their hands as they cross London Road, when often visibility is limited over the parked cars for a good view of oncoming cars.  Growth in development in the our rural village, over the past few years is gradually eroding the fields that borders it. The new builds will have a detrimental impact upon the character of Davenham, which seems to go against the 'Vision' of CWAC "By 2030 Cheshire West and Chester will be a desirable and attractive place to live , work, learn with vibrant towns and rural villages, reflecting the vision of the Sustainable Community Strategy......conserving, managing and enhancing the valuable natural and historical environments." How is it possible to allow other new housing estate to be built on the greenfields of Davenham and still conserve and enhance its valuable natural environment? The open fields that remain contribute hugely to the character of the village. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local plan. There is concern that there is a lack of infrastructure, the doctors surgeries, dentists and schools are already under pressure. Old and established trees and hedges will be lost to the new developments. These form an important part to the local eco system, absorbing CO2 and take up of ground water. Air quality will suffer and as well as adding to the risk of flooding. To meet housing needs, all brownfield sites in the Northwich urban area should be developed before any greenfield sites. The development of brownfield sites would 'conserve, manage and enhance the valuable natural and historical environments' and would benefit all communities. Greenfield sites should only be used as a last resort, once they are built on they are lost forever. These are all points which CWAC was presumed to protect when it agreed with the Davenham and Whatcroft Neighbourhood Plan. I would hope that CWAC will take my views into consideration. I strongly oppose any plans of development within Davenham as anymore traffic and loss of environment will remove the integrity of the village completely. The wellbeing through lack of walking and cycling routes for those who already live within the village, could suffer as they see the beautiful country side devoured under the heavy building machinery and eventually another housing estate. 

Comment

Representation ID: 8368

Received: 25/08/2025

Respondent: Alison Coverdale

SS31
I&O_8859
Dear Planning Office Team Please find below my comments / objections on the proposal Cheshire West and Chester Local Plan specifically to Davenham.  In summary:  - Contrary to highway safety - Contrary to stated policy - Detrimental to public interest - Lack of services/utilities - Other or non-specific reason In Detail: - NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network, particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, Jack Lane and London Road suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns.  There is already a problem with lack of parking spaces for the local shops where there is regular congestion. Pedestrians often take their life in their hands as they cross London Road, when often visibility is limited over the parked cars for a good view of oncoming cars.  Growth in development in the our rural village, over the past few years is gradually eroding the fields that borders it. The new builds will have a detrimental impact upon the character of Davenham, which seems to go against the 'Vision' of CWAC "By 2030 Cheshire West and Chester will be a desirable and attractive place to live , work, learn with vibrant towns and rural villages, reflecting the vision of the Sustainable Community Strategy......conserving, managing and enhancing the valuable natural and historical environments." How is it possible to allow other new housing estate to be built on the greenfields of Davenham and still conserve and enhance its valuable natural environment? The open fields that remain contribute hugely to the character of the village. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local plan. There is concern that there is a lack of infrastructure, the doctors surgeries, dentists and schools are already under pressure. Old and established trees and hedges will be lost to the new developments. These form an important part to the local eco system, absorbing CO2 and take up of ground water. Air quality will suffer and as well as adding to the risk of flooding. To meet housing needs, all brownfield sites in the Northwich urban area should be developed before any greenfield sites. The development of brownfield sites would 'conserve, manage and enhance the valuable natural and historical environments' and would benefit all communities. Greenfield sites should only be used as a last resort, once they are built on they are lost forever. These are all  points which CWAC was presumed to protect when it agreed with the Davenham and Whatcroft Neighbourhood Plan. I would hope that CWAC will take my views into consideration. I strongly oppose any plans of development within Davenham as anymore traffic and loss of environment will remove the integrity of the village completely.  The wellbeing through lack of walking and cycling routes for those who already live within the village, could suffer as they see the beautiful country side devoured under the heavy building machinery and eventually another housing estate. 

Comment

Representation ID: 8380

Received: 25/08/2025

Respondent: Francesca Goudousaki

SS31
I&O_8871
I am a Davenham resident and wish to provide feedback on the CWAC Local Plan. Please could you confirm receipt of this feedback by your deadline of Aug 29th, and also direct me to where I can see it has been logged correctly. I copy in the parish clerk for their records also. There are 3 specific questions where I have feedback. I’ll address them in the order, Q31-Q29-Q30. Question 31 -Are there any constraints, including Infrastructure provision, that should be considered for Northwich/DAVENHAM when developing the new Local Plan Yes, NOR07 is wholly unsuitable for such proposed development on a number of grounds Family life and children’s health and wellbeing: I firstly want to express deep concern over the harmful impact that proposed Davenham developments — particularly NOR07 — would have on children and families in Davenham. Our village is built around community, childhood, and safety. Children here play in the streets, walk to school, cycle and explore the footpaths and green spaces that surround them with their families. The areas now earmarked for development are not just fields or potential plots — they are a vital part of the daily life, physical and mental health, and emotional well-being of the families who live here. If Covid-19 taught our society one positive thing, it is to value and protect our green spaces, particularly in the context of human health and wellbeing and safeguard these areas for our children (and their children!).  In addition, Davenham Primary is a single, small village school already at capacity, and the surrounding roads are narrow, dangerous, and ill-equipped to handle significant increases in traffic. Increased congestion, reduced air quality due to construction and traffic emissions, and the destruction of safe outdoor spaces will create a lasting, negative legacy for the youngest and most vulnerable members of our community. This plan would see construction, noise, and pollution push directly into a rural environment where children and families currently thrive — all without adequate infrastructure or safety assessments. Many families live here specifically for a healthier, safer environment in which to raise children, and this is therefore a devastating proposal. Flooding: The area is prone to surface flooding (easily visible on public flood maps) and development would almost certainly lead to further village flooding with particular risk to the junction of Eaton lane and Hartford Road which has historically flooded and left residents out of there homes for 6+ months Community warnings of development in Moulton that would create flooding risks in the area were ignored,  and flooding occurred in 2022 A CWAC report documents this https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/asset-library/flooding/s19-daveham-report.pdf Ecology: NOR07 is designated prime agricultural land surrounded by designated irreplaceable ancient woodland . STRAT 1 emphasises the importance of minimising the loss of high-grade agricultural land, particularly BMV (Best and most versatile) As mentioned, the land is surrounded on all sides by officially designated irreplaceable ancient woodland, also a river body (The Weaver) and ancient hedgerow. I hope you note that the ancient woodland that extends from Eaton Lane to the side of NOR07 then over the The River Weaver and into the proposed NOR8, is the longest corridor of ancient woodland in CWAC . This makes it and the surrounding area especially unique and important above its already listed status. These corridors and the surrounding open space around them are symbiotic , and are widely acknowledged in all modern ecology studies to be the most important. As modern ecologists know, these open spaces adjacent to protected ancient woodland environments provide the travel corridors and hunting ground for countless protected species in an ancient woodland setting. These would be significantly (and arguably criminally) impacted by such development. The ecosystem does not contain itself to the woodland itself, rather it relies also on the spaces around it. I am happy to provide references and studies on this. I am also personally aware of multiple bat species and nesting barn owls that use NOR07 specifically as their primary hunting and feeding area. I have also witnessed snakes and other important wildlife species in the area. Given the length of the ancient woodland corridor, the water body, and the meadows, the entire area (NOR07, Vale Royal Locks, NOR08) is a truly unique habitat that should be investigated for SSSI status. It is a jewel in the CWAC landscape. Development in the area is totally misinformed and ecologically vandalistic, going against all government guidance and policy on ecology. Access The aforementioned boundaries of NOR07, the protected ancient woodland, River Weaver and hedgerow, mean that NOR07 is inaccessible in any practical way without unlawful damage to the habitat. Eaton Lane would provide the only access point without penetrating the ancient woodland, the alternative is building a bridge over the weaver through other ancient woodland which you would agree is nonsensical when there are other better suited areas for housing development. Eaton Lane is a small and narrow form of ‘cul-de-sac’ with some limited bridleway traffic to the farm and one other small rural property, wholly unsuitable for high traffic and already at capacity. Many children and families walk to school and back daily to and from Eaton Lane and up Hartford Road, and increased traffic (that they are certainly not used to) puts them at increased risk of danger, and discomfort. Increased traffic would result in an intolerable level of congestion not only from people travelling at peak times but also during a lengthy construction period and after the housing development is complete (more homeowners = more cars, more delivery drivers, more maintenance vehicles etc). We may also see more speeding offences, which threatens the safety of our villagers. Hartford Road (the only access to Eaton Lane) has already been flagged as unsuitable for high flow construction HGVs due to risk of road collapse . This has been widely documented in HyNet consultations with the community. Further to this, some of the proposed HYNet stations are proposed on NOR07. Should HyNet proceed in the area, this would put a hydrogen pipeline under a proposed development which raises many new concerns of safety and planning practicality. In addition to NOR07, NOR06 and NOR08 are similarly affected by the above concerns with particular respect to the preservation of the village around the historic parish church (NOR06) and the preservation of ancient woodland habitat and its surroundings (NOR08). Additionally, the owner of NOR06 has not consented to sale or alternative use of the land, this was made explicitly clear in a local community gathering on the proposed Local Plan . It is a family farm that is not up for sale and they are extremely upset that the land is in the plan without prior consultation, as this now places an administrative burden on them that was avoidable and unnecessary should prior outreach have occured.

Comment

Representation ID: 8413

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Davenham & Bostock Parish Council

NOR06, NOR07
I&O_8904
CW&Cs Local plan states that they will continue to:- Protect the character of a village: allowing developers to double the size of Davenham is at odds with this Promote wellbeing: these proposals would allow development on green spaces Only consider Prime farmland in exceptional circumstances - Both NOR06 & NOR07 are both considered to be prime farmland Ensure there is appropriate infrastructure! Roads at capacity, Buses infrequent and availability not conducive to regular use. Trains require users to drive to all nearby stations - car parking is costly and limited     For these reasons, Davenham & Bostock Parish Council strongly urges Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the Parish. We request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan The Parish Council is aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current pre-application from Stonhams for a small development and Community Centre on land adjoining Butchers Stile, and an approach from Tatton Estates to develop the Hamlet of Bostock. These two developments would collectively add circa 125 dwellings to the Parish These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive the support of the Parish Council, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, an agreed % split re affordable housing, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. We remain committed to working constructively with the Council to identify more appropriate and sustainable options for growth that respect the needs and character of our community. We look forward to taking you through our proposal in more detail.

Comment

Representation ID: 8421

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Sally Annet

I&O_8912
NOR06 – A556 and London Road traffic Davenham are already very heavy following the recent large developments in Winsford and Moulton together with developments in Davenham at Fountain Lane, Green Lane, Church Street. The safety of the travellers at the caravan site at the end of London Road must also be considered. The land identified for NOR06 is a busy working farm and in the same family for generations. The farm is part of village life with its local farm shop produce and farm animals, all supporting a community spirit and contributing to mental well being. It has a rare breed programme as well as promoting local tourism with its Caravan Club approved site. It is also one of the last remaining Cheshire farms with its farmhouse at the centre of its land. Development of these key fields would possibly tip the farm into no longer being commercially viable. NOR06 farm land is crossed by public footpaths used heavily by walkers before, during and since Covid as a de-stress from daily life and as a boost to mental health. The designated fields support an abundance of wildlife which would be lost to development including various birds of prey, hares and owls. Mere Bank has that name for a reason. NOR06 has areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. The proposed development would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the local Davenham community. The proposed area would encroach on the designated conservation area and also obscure the landmark of St Wilfred’s Parish Church. Despite developments over recent years the additional 1305 houses of NOR06 and NOR07 now proposed are entirely disproportionate to Davenham village size and infrastructure which on a day to day basis is already operating at or near capacity. The village road network and bypass, suffer from heavy congestion which further development would only exacerbate. There are already concerns regarding traffic, air quality, and safety. This is before the Lostock Gralam incinerator becomes operational and the true effects on the local atmosphere are felt. There have been a number of recent planning applications which may be more aligned with the scale and character of the village. The old Davenham Dairy with land running alongside the A556, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8483

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: A-M, WR and AJA Posnett

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_8974
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 8518

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Jay Hale

I&O_9009
Northwich It is a real positive to see the expansion of the Victoria Infirmary, but the town still suffers from an acute shortage of Doctors, Dentists,Teachers - especially SEN and of course from an emergency services perspective the ever reducing fire service is a concern.   Consider London Road, Chester Road, Castle Street and Manchester Road - at peak times and Saturdays these roads are operating over capacity already and many residents living on the outskirts will not travel  into the town centre because of the traffic queues into town. Highways need to consider park & ride (see also my comments re NOR10) Weaverham Davenham CWACs Local Plan states that they will continue to:- 1. Protect the character of the village, allowing developers to double the size of Davenham makes this impossible 2. Promote wellbeing,: these proposals would allow development on green spaces 3. Only consider Prime Farmland in exceptional circumstances - Both NOR06 & NOR07 are both Prime Farmland 4. Ensure there is appropriate infrastructure Our roads are at capacity, buses infrequent and availability not conducive to regular use. Trains require users to drive a long way to stations - car parking there is costly and limited - NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and is a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the charming rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting. Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating over capacity. The road network,particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, already suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. There is currently very little parking available in the centre of the village and cars parking along the road reduce the traffic to single lane causing a great deal of congestion. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified also include areas at risk of flooding or are on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives.There is no Doctors' or Dentists' surgery in the village and the primary school is already operating at capacity.. The bus service is limited and there is no access to a railway station without driving at least 15 mins to Hartford, Northwich or Plumley   - NOR06 - Land to the rear of Church Street and London Road The lack of adequate infrastructure is already known to CWAC Highways. This area wouldrequire access via two of the three busiest streets in the village! These roads already  operate over capacity at peak times● A known and designated conservation area is situated in the centre of NOR06 ● NOR06 is home to two working farms and both of these landowners (either side of the Conservation area) have publicly stated they have no intention of selling their farms ● We are aware of a 72 Bed Dementia care nursing home currently working its way through the planning process - If and when approved, it will take land in NOR06 and increasetraffic because of staff visitors and suppliers ● There is a long established footpath here that would need to be protected ● A large sewage pipe runs across this land ● The land falls steeply down to Elderbriar brook. This would be overwhelmed with substantial surface water. It feeds into the River Dane near the old stone bridge and this area has seen a broad area of flooded farmland in recent years. ● The area is known for its diverse fauna and flora with ancient trees that are home to a variety of birds including owls and kestrels ● The grass areas are homes to foxes, hedgehogs, hares, bees etc and should be protected under existing wildlife and conservation requirements/regulations - NOR07 - Land off Eaton lane - currently down a single track lane ● Another Infrastructure hotspot known to CWAC Highways, as all current traffic from Eaton Lane, Eaton Crescent & Pritchard Drive, have to use Hartford Road (The third known busiest road in the village) to access the A556 ● There has recently been serious flooding around the junction of Eaton Lane and Hartford Road – below the site where NOR07 is proposed. Increased areas of tarmac and concrete will magnify this problem. ● A development of 440 houses would easily equate to over 800 cars - and Eaton Lane could not cope with this volume of traffic ● Eaton Lane (post cattle grid) is home to a ground works business, a working farm and a small residential site plus a Caravan Club recognised camp site. These businesses would be severely impacted by any housing development ● NORO7 has been identified by Cadent as a proposed route for a future Hydrogen pipeline. This introduces a significant future infrastructure constraint and raises potential safety and planning concerns. The presence of such a pipeline would almost certainly reduce the developable area and adds a further layer of risk that has not been adequately accounted for in the site assessment process ● Eaton Lane -this farm land is some of the best in the UK for growing crops. It is currently used to grow Maize and potatoes ● The land is also home to numerous butterflies, bees, foxes, wood pigeons, buzzards and bats, (we believe there could be a roost in the trees near to the railway line). Owls are also nesting there and there are multiple badger sets (which are now protected) ● Cheshire Wildlife Trust are also in the process of identifying more wildlife corridors and Vale Royal Locks and the surrounding fields are in scope for this! I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current pre application submitted by Stonhams for a reasonably sized development and village Community centre on land adjoining Butchers Stile. I am also aware of Tatton Estate’s plans to develop the Hamlet of Bostock, opposite the Hayhurst Arms i.e Bostock Green. These two developments, if included in the Local plan would collectively add circa 200 dwellings to the Parish. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham are removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8597

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Jill Murphy

SS31
I&O_9088
- NOR06 and NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network,particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives.  I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current application submitted by Wain Estates, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting.  For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8603

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Craig Griffiths

NOR06 and NOR07
I&O_9094
I strongly object to large-scale housing allocations for Davenham (NOR06 and NOR07). The village is a designated Conservation Area with a distinct rural character and highly valued green spaces. It has: No GP surgery No dental practice One small primary school already close to capacity The proposed scale of development is wholly disproportionate to the village’s size and infrastructure capacity. Specific concerns include:   Loss of Biodiversity: The sites contain species-rich grassland, hedgerows, and wildlife corridors. Development here would conflict with the Environment Act 2021’s requirement for biodiversity net gain and Local Plan ENV4. Transport and Congestion: The A556, Hartford Road, and London Road already suffer severe congestion. Limited public transport means car dependency would increase, adding to emissions and road safety risks. Flood Risk: Some sites act as natural floodplains, absorbing surface water. Removing them would heighten local and downstream flood risk. Climate Change Impact: Greenfield land helps store carbon and reduce local heat effects. Replacing it with impermeable surfaces undermines the Council’s climate emergency commitments. Loss of Ecosystem Services: Open countryside provides air purification, noise reduction, pollination, and mental health benefits — all of which would be lost. Conflict with Planning Policy: The proposals are inconsistent with the NPPF’s protection of Green Belt and its requirement for sustainable development patterns.   There are already smaller, proportionate proposals under consideration from Wain Estates, Stonhams, and at Bostock Green, totalling around 200 homes. These are more realistic for Davenham’s scale and could be supported with appropriate design and infrastructure. Policy Appendix – Relevant References Green Belt Protection NPPF 137–151 – Exceptional circumstances required to release Green Belt; priority for brownfield first Local Plan STRAT9 – Maintain openness of Green Belt Settlement Size and Character NPPF 130 – Development should be sympathetic to local character and setting NPPF 78 – Support rural vitality without overwhelming settlements Local Plan DM3 – Reflect settlement’s scale and for Infrastructure Capacity NPPF 20 & 34 – Development must be supported by adequate infrastructure Local Plan STRAT1 – Ensure infrastructure and services are in place Transport NPPF 104 & 110 – Promote sustainable transport, safe access Local Plan STRAT10 – Reduce car dependency Biodiversity Environment Act 2021 s.98 – Minimum 10% biodiversity net gain NPPF 179 – Protect and enhance biodiversity Local Plan ENV4 – No loss of habitats of principal importance. Flood Risk NPPF 159 & 161 – Avoid inappropriate development in flood-risk areas Local Plan ENV1 – Minimise flood risk and manage drainage Climate Change NPPF 152 – Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Local Plan STRAT1 & DM44 – Protect green infrastructure for climate adaptation Ecosystem Services NPPF 174 – Recognise and protect ecosystem services Local Plan ENV3 – Protect and enhance green infrastructure Conclusion For the reasons set out above, I urge the Council to remove or substantially reduce the proposed housing allocations in Davenham from the final Local Plan. Any growth must be proportionate, supported by infrastructure, and sensitive to the village’s historic and rural setting.

Comment

Representation ID: 8657

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: Bellway Homes (North West) Ltd and Bloor Homes Ltd

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_9148
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 8720

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Daniel Beckingham

NOR06 and NOR07
I&O_9213
Question SS 31 -Are there any constraints, including Infrastructure provision, that should be considered for Northwich/DAVENHAM when developing the new Local Plan NOR06 – NOR07: Davenham Davenham is a historic village in a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments in this location would significantly alter its rural character and pose a threat to heritage assets and open spaces. NOR07 in particular involves placing housing on prime, currently very active farm land which is fully in use, thus affecting farmers livelihoods and local produce. Furthermore, Eaton Lane and Eaton farm track are wholly unsuitable for the amount of traffic that would be generated from the proposed development. The proposed housing on here would adversely affect the current narrow single-track route, along with some of its trees which have preservation orders on them, that is actively used by cyclists, walkers even Duke of Edinburgh hikers if the associated increase in traffic came to fruition. Moreover, the identified sites include areas vulnerable to flooding on land that plays a vital role in mitigating flood risk. Development in these locations would increase surface water run-off, disrupt local watercourses, and result in the loss of biodiversity and greenfield land—contrary to the principles of sustainable development. Significant flooding has occurred near the junction of Eaton Lane and Hartford, just below the proposed NOR07 site. Expanding areas of tarmac and concrete would likely worsen this issue. A similar risk exists on the northern side of NOR06, where the land slopes steeply toward Elderbriar Brook. This brook could be overwhelmed by increased surface runoff. It flows into the River Dane near the old stone bridge—a location that has already experienced widespread farmland flooding in recent years.  In general, the scale of development currently proposed for Davenham is wholly disproportionate to the village’s size and setting.  The village’s infrastructure is already under considerable strain. Key roads—including the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road—experience frequent congestion, and further development would intensify issues related to traffic, air quality, and road safety. Public transport options are limited, and additional housing would place unsustainable pressure on the already stretched local bus services. In light of these concerns, I strongly urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within Davenham parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development be removed or significantly reduced in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8722

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Mrs Cathrine Ruston

NOR06 - NOR07
I&O_9215
NOR06 - NOR07  Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting. The existing road network infrastructure into Davenham is already under considerable pressure, particularly along London Road from the A556, Hartford Road and the narrow Church Street which is used as a shortcut in and out of the village. These areas suffer from heavy congestion and further development would exacerbate the issues of traffic, parking, air quality and safety. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The local school is close to capacity, there is no local healthcare provision, and that in surrounding is already under pressure.  The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of wildlife habitats, biodiversity, productive farmland and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current application submitted by Wain Estates, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green; collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, guaranteed infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8734

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Ivan Beckingham

NOR06 and NOR07
I&O_9227
Question SS 31 -Are there any constraints, including Infrastructure provision, that should be considered for Northwich/DAVENHAM when developing the new Local Plan NOR06 – NOR07: Davenham Davenham is a historic village in a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments in this location would significantly alter its rural character and pose a threat to heritage assets and open spaces. NOR07 in particular involves placing housing on prime, currently very active farm land which is fully in use, thus affecting farmers livelihoods and local produce. Furthermore, Eaton Lane and Eaton farm track are wholly unsuitable for the amount of traffic that would be generated from the proposed development. The proposed housing on here would adversely affect the current narrow single-track route, along with some of its trees which have preservation orders on them, that is actively used by cyclists, walkers even Duke of Edinburgh hikers if the associated increase in traffic came to fruition. Moreover, the identified sites include areas vulnerable to flooding on land that plays a vital role in mitigating flood risk. Development in these locations would increase surface water run-off, disrupt local watercourses, and result in the loss of biodiversity and greenfield land—contrary to the principles of sustainable development. Significant flooding has occurred near the junction of Eaton Lane and Hartford, just below the proposed NOR07 site. Expanding areas of tarmac and concrete would likely worsen this issue. A similar risk exists on the northern side of NOR06, where the land slopes steeply toward Elderbriar Brook. This brook could be overwhelmed by increased surface runoff. It flows into the River Dane near the old stone bridge—a location that has already experienced widespread farmland flooding in recent years.  In general, the scale of development currently proposed for Davenham is wholly disproportionate to the village’s size and setting.  The village’s infrastructure is already under considerable strain. Key roads—including the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road—experience frequent congestion, and further development would intensify issues related to traffic, air quality, and road safety. Public transport options are limited, and additional housing would place unsustainable pressure on the already stretched local bus services.   In light of these concerns, I strongly urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within Davenham parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development be removed or significantly reduced in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8776

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Jennifer Gandy

SS31
I&O_9269
Question SS31: Northwich Infrastructure Moulton is already saturated with new build homes. Our infrastructure has collapsed under the weight.

Comment

Representation ID: 8831

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: Trustees of G A Artell

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_9324
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 8835

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: Beverley Crerar

SS31
I&O_9328
Question 3 Northwich It is a real positive to see the expansion of the Victoria Infirmary, but the town still suffers from a shortage of Doctors Dentists, Teachers - especially SEN and of course from an emergency services perspective the ever reducing fire service vis a vis more housing to provide cover for London Road, Chester Road Castle Street, Manchester Road - at peak times and Saturdays these roads are operating at capacity and many residents living on the outskirts will not travel into the town centre because of the traffic queues into town!! Highways need to consider park & ride.   Davenham CWACs Local plan states that they will continue to:- Protect the character of a village: allowing developers to double the size of Davenham is at odds with this. Promote wellbeing: these proposals would allow development on green spaces Only consider Prime farmland in exceptional circumstances - Both NOR06 & NOR07 are both considered to be prime farmland. Ensure there is appropriate infrastructure! Roads at capacity, Buses infrequent and availability not conducive to regular use. Trains require users to drive to all nearby stations - car parking is costly and limited. - NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting. Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network,particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns.Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. There is no Doctors or Dentists surgery in the village and the primary school is operating at capacity. The bus service is limited and there is no access to a railway station without driving at least 15 mins to Hartford, Northwich or Plumley - NOR06 - Land to the rear of Church Street and London Road Lack of adequate infrastructure is already known to CWAC Highways. This area would require access via two of the three busiest streets in the village! These roads operate at capacity at peak times A known and designated conservation area is situated in the centre of NOR06 NOR06 is home to two working farms and both of these landowners (either side of the Conservation area) have publicly stated they have no intention of selling their farms We are aware of a 72 Bed Dementia care nursing home currently working its way through the planning process - When approved, it will take land in NOR06 and increase traffic via staff visitors and suppliers There is a long established footpath here that would need to be protected A large sewage pipe runs across this land The land falls steeply down to Elderbriar brook. This would be overwhelmed with substantial surface water. It feeds into the River Dane near the old stone bridge and this area has seen a broad area of flooded farmland in recent years. The area is known for its diverse fauna and flora with ancient trees that are home to a variety of birds The grass areas are homes to foxes hedgehogs bees etc and should be protected under existing wildlife and conservation requirements/regulations - NOR07 - Land off Eaton lane - currently down a single track lane Another Infrastructure hotspot known to CWAC Highways, as all current traffic from Eaton Lane, Eaton Crescent & Pritchard Drive, have to use Hartford road (The third known busiest road in the village) to access the A556 There has been serious flooding around the junction of Eaton Land and Hartford – below the site where NOR07 is proposed. Increased areas of tarmac and concrete will magnify this problem. A development of 440 houses would easily equate to over 800 cars - and Eaton Lane could not cope with this volume of traffic Eaton Lane (post cattle grid) is home to a ground works business, a working farm and a small residential site plus a Caravan Club recognised Camp site. These businesses would be severely impacted by any housing development● NORO7 has been identified by Cadent as a proposed route for a future Hydrogen pipeline. This introduces a significant future infrastructure constraint and raises potential safety and planning concerns. The presence of such a pipeline would almost certainly reduce the developable area and adds a further layer of risk that has not been adequately accounted for in the site assessment process Eaton Lane -the actual farm land is considered to be in the top 10 in the UK re it’s condition for growing crops. It is currently used to grow crops such as Maze & Cheshire new potatoes The Land is also home to numerous butterflies, bees, foxes, wood pigeons, buzzards and Bats, (I believe there could be a Roost in the trees near to the railway line) There is also Owls are nesting there and there are multiple Badger sets (which are now protected by the current Government) Cheshire Wildlife Trust are also in the process of identifying more wildlife corridors and Vale Royal Locks and the surrounding fields are in scope for this! We are aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current pre application submitted by Stonhams for a reasonably sized development and village Community centre on land adjoining Butchers Stile We are also aware of Tatton Estate’s plans to develop the Hamlet of Bostock, opposite the Hayhurst Arms i.e Bostock Green. These two developments, if included in the Local plan would collectively add circa 200 dwellings to the Parish. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 8931

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Caroline Bradbury

I&O_9424
NOR06 and  NOR07; Davenham is a village which has been considered on your plan.  It is a rural village which has already doubled in size over the last 10 years and does not have the infrastructure to support further development.      The roads in and around the village are already congested. It is already a rat-race which traffic trying to cut through the side roads to beat the traffic.  It is extremely difficult to get through the parked cars in a small vehicle , let alone a larger vehicle.  This raises safety concerns both for drivers and walkers.    Public transport is minimal and most have to drive to get to the route of the public transport.  Buses are minimal, however if you see a bus trying to drive through the traffic and parked cars , it also raises safety concerns.   The village has a few shops and a local school at capacity.  There is no medical facilities such as GPs or Dentist and Leighton hospital is already over capacity.   The land which you are proposing on NOR07 and is top quality agricultural land which has been farmed for generations, growing food.  As a country we are only 40% sufficient in food, this has decreased by 20% in 20 years,  we must continue to protect our working agricultural land.  Development must be prioritised on brownfield sites that are already out of production.  40 years ago agricultural land was taken for Gadbrook park, half off that site is still vacant and not developed.  These sites are where we should be prioritising for development.   The land off Eaton Land , Davenham, since the last developments in the village (Fountain Lane, Beehive Drive) has had a negative impact on the water course.  There isn’t the capacity to take the surface water away.  Joining land has flooded due to water not being able to get away fast enough. Acres of land lying surface water, because pipes and ditches don’t have the capacity to take it away.  A few years ago Houses on Hartford Road were also flooded as a result.   NOR07 infrastructure is not suitable for the proposed development.  The site identified boundaries are the river, railway, a deep ravine and a small single private track approx. 3m wide  which is not owned by the land over of the proposed site.  There is no access off a main road, this is not a viable option for development.   This prime agricultural land hosts barn owls, bats and working badger sets (a protective species which Labour backs, with the stop of the badger cull).  So the environmental impact is huge.   For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations for  Davenham and Northwich.

Comment

Representation ID: 8965

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: Mrs J Jenkins

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_9458
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 8998

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Patricia Sant

I&O_9491
NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network in particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current application submitted by Wain Estates, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish.   I would therefore, request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan!  

Comment

Representation ID: 9023

Received: 26/08/2025

Respondent: National Grid Electricity Transmission

Agent: Fisher German LLP

NOR11
I&O_9516
Proposed development sites crossed or in close proximity to NGET assets. Following a review of the above Development Plan Document, we have identified that one or more proposed development sites are crossed o in close proximity to NGET assets. NOR11 - Weaverham West - west of Sandy Lane (Housing) Asset description: ZO ROUTE TWR (011R - 197): 400Kv Overhead Transmission Line route: DAINES - DEESIDE 1 and DAINES - DEESIDE 2 A plan showing details of the site locations and details of NGET assets is attached (illustrative plan only) EP01, EP02, NOR11, ELT04 interactions – suggested wording With respect to the future drafting of policies supporting the above allocations: 1. We propose that in order to appropriately manage interactions identified between the above proposed allocations and NGET assets that the following wording, or wording to similar effect, be included within an appropriate overarching allocations policy, or within each allocation policy: “The development will include a strategy for responding to the NGET Overhead Lines Route present within the site which demonstrates how the NGET Design Guide and Principles have been applied at the masterplanning stage and how the impact of the assets has been reduced through good design.” 2. We propose that to ensure appropriate engagement with utility and service providers to ensure network resilience and response to development proposals that the following wording, or wording to similar effect, be included within an appropriate overarching allocations policy, or within each allocation policy: “Early engagement will be required with the utility and service providers in order to establish available supply capacity to the site and, depending on the type of proposed development, what reinforcement will be required.”

Comment

Representation ID: 9177

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Megan Smith

I&O_9670
We currently live in weaverham on [address redacted]. We moved to this area to get the best of both worlds with a wonderful village and beautiful countryside.  My children enjoy this too as we own two dogs we regularly walk out the back of our house which is where hundreds of houses are looking at being built.  This causes numerous issues  - destroying wildlife and countryside  - taking away beautiful walks and areas from local residents who use this for safe walks for dogs / children and for mental health reasons allowing a safe walk with no cars etc Aside from the above the issues of more housing brings about even more issues :  I can't get a doctor's appointment as it is my children have been forced to sit in A&E which is already at its maximum capacity for hours on end just to get antibiotics for an infection.  Add 1000 of more houses and I can only see this issue getting worse and worse.   The schools Weaverham have a high school which take children from Barnton, cuddington, winnington and weaverham. I fear for the size of the classes when / if this goes ahead.  It leaves children who may be struggling no chance to progress as there simply won't be enough space/ time and staff to help them. This also applies for primary school.  The roads There isn't one road that doesn't have giant potholes which take months of reporting to get sorted. More cars , the worse they will get.  Touching back on the school if you take the time to sit near the schools in weaverham at pick up and drop off time you will see how dangerous it is and how it blocks roads. Add even 20 more cars to this and it's going to worsen. Then there's general traffic. This is getting worse by the day and it's obvious to say it will only get worse with all these new houses.  Whilst I appreciate it will bring money to local businesses this isn't beneficial for the majority of people who live here. It is taking away green spaces which are few and far between without addressing issues that people report daily. People who require medical attention will be even worse off as more people in the area. More pressure on doctors which in turn leads to even more pressure on local A&E and hospitals.

Comment

Representation ID: 9229

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Helen Renshaw

NOR06, NOR07, NOR08
I&O_9722
NOR06, NOR07 & NOR08, Currently used as prime agricultural land with no previous development. To build on these fields would destroy trees and hedgerows, floral, fauna and wildlife. This would restrict access and loss of green spaces, walking and cycling routes essential to the wellbeing of residents. Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network, particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. School Lane and Hartford have become very congested since the recent new housing developments. At peak times the traffic now backs up on the A556, turning right into School Lane creating a dangerous situation on two counts, blocking the outside lane (towards Chester) and cars blocking the flow of traffic in the opposite direction crossing at the traffic lights. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. NHS services are already stretched; it is common place to have difficulty in accessing appointments and treatments  The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current application submitted by Wain Estates, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 9237

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Martin Renshaw

NOR06, NOR07, NOR08
I&O_9730
NOR06, NOR07 & NOR08, Currently used as prime agricultural land with no previous development. To build on these fields would destroy trees and hedgerows, floral, fauna and wildlife. This would restrict access and loss of green spaces, walking and cycling routes essential to the wellbeing of residents. Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network, particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns. School Lane and Hartford have become very congested since the recent new housing developments. At peak times the traffic now backs up on the A556, turning right into School Lane creating a dangerous situation on two counts, blocking the outside lane (towards Chester) and cars blocking the flow of traffic in the opposite direction crossing at the traffic lights. Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. NHS services are already stretched; it is common place to have difficulty in accessing appointments and treatments  The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. I am aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current application submitted by Wain Estates, a pre-application from Stonhams, and a small development at Bostock Green collectively involving around 200 dwellings. These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed in the final Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 9240

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: AM Littler, NJM Littler and C Leigh

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_9733
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 9371

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Malcom Whitwood

SS31
I&O_9865
Question 31 - Are there any constraints, including Infrastructure provision, that should be considered for Northwich/DAVENHAM when developing the new Local Plan. NOR06 - NOR07  - Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area.  The proposed developments NOR06 and NOR07 would dramatically alter the rural character of the village. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village's size and setting, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community.  Davenham's existing infrastructure is already operating at capacity. The road network, particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion as a direct result of previous housing developments approved by CWAC over the last 12 years i.e. off Green Lane and off fountain Lane, and any further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns.  Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on already limited local bus services. Davenham Primary School is already at full capacity with a significant number of parents bringing their children from Kingsmead, which excerbates the traffic congestion even more at school opening and closing times. Davenham has no health services, e.g. it does not have a doctor’s surgery or a dentist, the nearest being in Kingsmead. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. All future planning applications and interest from developers should be more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These should be more proportionate to Davenham's capacity and infrastructure with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, we equest that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final Local Plan

Comment

Representation ID: 9415

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Deborah Mercer

SS31
I&O_9910
Northwich is constrained like any other established urban area and it is vitally important that if significant expansion is to take place then it needs to be planned alongside suitable infrastructure upgrades:  On a strategic level, highway capacity improvements have to be brought forward alongside appropriately scaled upgrades to water, electricity and drainage networks to accommodate the potential scale of new housing and mitigate impact on the existing community. On a site specific level it is essential that infrastructure and community facilities (education, health, retail, leisure etc) are brought forward in parallel with new housing, again to mitigate impact on existing communities. Plan policies should be comprehensive and robust if the amenity of existing community, alongside the needs of any new community, is to be protected.

Comment

Representation ID: 9437

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: David Woodmansey

I&O_9932
Northwich It is a real positive to see the expansion of the Victoria Infirmary, but the town still suffers from a shortage of Doctors Dentists, Teachers - especially SEN and of course from an emergency services perspective the ever reducing fire service vis a vis more housing to provide cover for London Road, Chester Road Castle Street, Manchester Road - at peak times and Saturdays these roads are operating at capacity and many residents living on the outskirts will not travel into the town centre because of the traffic queues into town!! Highways need to consider park & ride (plus see our comments re NOR10 - Weaverham)   Davenham CWACs Local plan states that they will continue to:- Protect the character of a village: allowing developers to double the size of Davenham is 3.4. at odds with this Promote wellbeing: these proposals would allow development on green spaces Only consider Prime farmland in exceptional circumstances - Both NOR06 & NOR07 are both considered to be prime farmland Ensure there is appropriate infrastructure! Roads at capacity, Buses infrequent and availability not conducive to regular use. Trains require users to drive to all nearby stations - car parking is costly and limited -  NOR06 - NOR07  Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network,particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns.Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. There is no Doctors or Dentists surgery in the village and the primary school is operating at capacity. The bus service is limited and there is no access to a railway station without driving at least 15 mins to Hartford, Northwich or Plumley -  NOR06 - Land to the rear of Church Street and London Road Lack of adequate infrastructure is already known to CWAC Highways. This area would require access via two of the three busiest streets in the village! These roads operate at capacity at peak times A known and designated conservation area is situated in the centre of NOR06 NOR06 is home to two working farms and both of these landowners (either side of the Conservation area) have publicly stated they have no intention of selling their farms We are aware of a 72 Bed Dementia care nursing home currently working its way through the planning process - When approved, it will take land in NOR06 and increase traffic via staff visitors and suppliers There is a long established footpath here that would need to be protected A large sewage pipe runs across this land The land falls steeply down to Elderbriar brook. This would be overwhelmed with substantial surface water. It feeds into the River Dane near the old stone bridge and this area has seen a broad area of flooded farmland in recent years. The area is known for its diverse fauna and flora with ancient trees that are home to a variety of birds The grass areas are homes to foxes hedgehogs bees etc and should be protected under existing wildlife and conservation requirements/regulations - NOR07 - Land off Eaton lane - currently down a single track lane Another Infrastructure hotspot known to CWAC Highways, as all current traffic from Eaton Lane, Eaton Crescent & Pritchard Drive, have to use Hartford road (The third known busiest road in the village) to access the A556 There has been serious flooding around the junction of Eaton Land and Hartford – below the site where NOR07 is proposed. Increased areas of tarmac and concrete will magnify this problem. A development of 440 houses would easily equate to over 800 cars - and Eaton Lane could not cope with this volume of traffic Eaton Lane (post cattle grid) is home to a ground works business, a working farm and a small residential site plus a Caravan Club recognised Camp site. These businesses would be severely impacted by any housing development● NORO7 has been identified by Cadent as a proposed route for a future Hydrogen pipeline. This introduces a significant future infrastructure constraint and raises potential safety and planning concerns. The presence of such a pipeline would almost certainly reduce the developable area and adds a further layer of risk that has not been adequately accounted for in the site assessment process Eaton Lane -the actual farm land is considered to be in the top 10 in the UK re it’s condition for growing crops. It is currently used to grow crops such as Maze & Cheshire new potatoes The Land is also home to numerous butterflies, bees, foxes, wood pigeons, buzzards and Bats, (we believe there could be a Roost in the trees near to the railway line) There is also Owls are nesting there and there are multiple Badger sets (which are now protected by the current Government) Cheshire Wildlife Trust are also in the process of identifying more wildlife corridors and Vale Royal Locks and the surrounding fields are in scope for this!

Comment

Representation ID: 9440

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: Trustees & Beneficiaries of Ms D Bentley dec'd

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_9935
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)

Comment

Representation ID: 9447

Received: 27/08/2025

Respondent: Holly Hodkinson

I&O_9942
It is a real positive to see the expansion of the Victoria Infirmary, but the town still suffers from a shortage of Doctors Dentists, Teachers - especially SEN and of course from an emergency services perspective the ever reducing fire service vis a vis more housing to provide cover for London Road, Chester Road Castle Street, Manchester Road - at peak times and Saturdays these roads are operating at capacity and many residents living on the outskirts will not travel into the town centre because of the traffic queues into town!! Highways need to consider park & ride (plus see our comments re NOR10 - Weaverham Davenham CWACs Local plan states that they will continue to:- Protect the character of a village: allowing developers to double the size of Davenham is 3. 4. at odds with this Promote wellbeing: these proposals would allow development on green spaces Only consider Prime farmland in exceptional circumstances - Both NOR06 & NOR07 are both considered to be prime farmland Ensure there is appropriate infrastructure! Roads at capacity, Buses infrequent and availability not conducive to regular use. Trains require users to drive to all nearby stations - car parking is costly and limited - NOR06 - NOR07 Davenham is a historic village with a strong sense of identity and a designated Conservation Area. The proposed developments would dramatically alter the rural character of the village, and risk encroachment on heritage assets and open spaces valued by the community. The scale of development proposed is entirely disproportionate to the village’s size and setting Davenham’s existing infrastructure is already operating at or near capacity. The road network,particularly the A556, Hartford Road, and London Road, suffers from heavy congestion, and further development would exacerbate traffic, air quality, and safety concerns.Public transport provision is minimal, and additional residents would place unsustainable pressure on limited local bus services. The sites identified include areas at risk of flooding or on land that serves an important function in mitigating local flood risk. Any development here would increase surface water run-off and impact local watercourses. Furthermore, there would be a loss of biodiversity and greenfield land, contrary to sustainability objectives. There is no Doctors or Dentists surgery in the village and the primary school is operating at capacity. The bus service is limited and there is no access to a railway station without driving at least 15 mins to Hartford, Northwich or Plumley - NOR06 - Land to the rear of Church Street and London Road Lack of adequate infrastructure is already known to CWAC Highways. This area would require access via two of the three busiest streets in the village! These roads operate at capacity at peak times A known and designated conservation area is situated in the centre of NOR06 NOR06 is home to two working farms and both of these landowners (either side of the Conservation area) have publicly stated they have no intention of selling their farms We are aware of a 72 Bed Dementia care nursing home currently working its way through the planning process - When approved, it will take land in NOR06 and increase traffic via staff visitors and suppliers There is a long established footpath here that would need to be protected A large sewage pipe runs across this land The land falls steeply down to Elderbriar brook. This would be overwhelmed with substantial surface water. It feeds into the River Dane near the old stone bridge and this area has seen a broad area of flooded farmland in recent years. The area is known for its diverse fauna and flora with ancient trees that are home to a variety of birds The grass areas are homes to foxes hedgehogs bees etc and should be protected under existing wildlife and conservation requirements/regulations - NOR07 - Land off Eaton lane - currently down a single track lane Another Infrastructure hotspot known to CWAC Highways, as all current traffic from Eaton Lane, Eaton Crescent & Pritchard Drive, have to use Hartford road (The third known busiest road in the village) to access the A556 There has been serious flooding around the junction of Eaton Land and Hartford – below the site where NOR07 is proposed. Increased areas of tarmac and concrete will magnify this problem. A development of 440 houses would easily equate to over 800 cars - and Eaton Lane could not cope with this volume of traffic Eaton Lane (post cattle grid) is home to a ground works business, a working farm and a small residential site plus a Caravan Club recognised Camp site. These businesses would be severely impacted by any housing development● NORO7 has been identified by Cadent as a proposed route for a future Hydrogen pipeline. This introduces a significant future infrastructure constraint and raises potential safety and planning concerns. The presence of such a pipeline would almost certainly reduce the developable area and adds a further layer of risk that has not been adequately accounted for in the site assessment process Eaton Lane -the actual farm land is considered to be in the top 10 in the UK re it’s condition for growing crops. It is currently used to grow crops such as Maze & Cheshire new potatoes The Land is also home to numerous butterflies, bees, foxes, wood pigeons, buzzards and Bats, (we believe there could be a Roost in the trees near to the railway line) There is also Owls are nesting there and there are multiple Badger sets (which are now protected by the current Government) Cheshire Wildlife Trust are also in the process of identifying more wildlife corridors and Vale Royal Locks and the surrounding fields are in scope for this! We are aware of planning applications and interest from developers that are more aligned with the scale and character of the village. These include a current pre application submitted by Stonhams for a reasonably sized development and village Community centre on land adjoining Butchers Stile We are also aware of Tatton Estate’s plans to develop the Hamlet of Bostock, opposite the Hayhurst Arms i.e Bostock Green. These two developments, if included in the Local plan would collectively add circa 200 dwellings to the Parish These proposals would be more proportionate to Davenham’s capacity and infrastructure and would be more likely to receive support, provided they are delivered with appropriate design, infrastructure investment, and sensitivity to the village setting. For these reasons, I would urge Cheshire West and Chester Council to reconsider the proposed development allocations within the parish. I request that all current proposals for large-scale residential development in Davenham be removed or significantly scaled back in the final local plan,

Comment

Representation ID: 9587

Received: 03/09/2025

Respondent: C, M and R Allsop

Agent: J10 Planning

I&O_10082
The options for Northwich all have something wrong with them; for instance: NOR1 at Barnton/Anderton feels as though it would need a strategic link road to service it NOR2 at Wincham suffers from poor accessibility and would lead to a remote and detached location without community infrastructure support NOR10, 11 and 12 at Weaverham may offer the best fit but this is less an expansion of Northwich and more about the re-definition of Weaverham without supporting infrastructure NOR6 will change the character of Davenham, whilst not benefitting from great access NOR7, 8 and 9 may offer the best option for Northwich (aka Hartford)