Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6269
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Councillor Lucy Sumner
I&O_6676
5 | SS 42 Do you have any further comments about any of the potential growth areas identified around Frodsham? 🐝 Frodsham Neighbourhood Plan Evidence Base Yes. FRO01 and FRO02 are fundamentally inconsistent with the adopted FNHP and with principles of sustainable development. The FNHP (SEA and policies H1–H2, GSRL1, HCH1–HCH5) directs growth to modest, brownfield-led opportunities while protecting Frodsham’s market town identity, heritage, and green setting. Allocating these sites would not only undermine the FNHP but also the credibility of the Local Plan itself. 🌳 Ancient Woodland Hob Hey Wood Development at FRO01 and FRO02 would: Sever Hob Hey Wood’s ecological corridors, cutting off vital bat and bird routes. Exacerbate flood risk, repeating the surface water and sewer flooding already recorded at Langdale Way and Manor House School. Worsen air quality in the A56 AQMA, where pollution is already above safe levels. Development at FRO03 would: Destroy Frodsham’s last countryside buffer to Helsby, undermining its distinct settlement identity. Ancient woodland is irreplaceable: it makes up just 2.5% of UK land, but holds over a third of carbon stored in our woods and soils. Once destroyed, it cannot be recreated. 🌹 Labour Perspective Labour locally (HOPE for Frodsham) stresses the protection of countryside and the need for infrastructure-first growth. Nationally, Labour’s “golden rules” for any Green Belt release demand 50% affordable housing, infrastructure, and green space improvements. FRO01 and FRO02 fail these tests – they are not “grey belt” but ecologically rich, high-value Green Belt. Allocating them would run counter to both local and national commitments. 🧠 Wider Context Bourland: ecological destruction undermines resilience to climate and flood risk. Colenutt: speculative commuter estates rarely deliver the affordable housing promised. Gallent: large, standardised estates erode community identity and public trust. Guardian (2025): too many estates nationally have been built “without shops, schools, or GPs,” leaving families stranded in car-dependent sprawl. Unless infrastructure is guaranteed before development, Frodsham risks repeating these failures. 📌 Important Considerations FRO01 and FRO02 are textbook examples of poor planning: Ancient woodland and biodiversity corridors would be irreparably damaged. Flood risk would worsen in areas already prone to sewer flooding. Air quality in the A56 AQMA would deteriorate. Community wellbeing would be undermined by the loss of Frodsham’s rural buffer. The potential growth areas FRO01 and FRO02 must be excluded. Frodsham’s growth should remain modest, brownfield-led, and aligned with the FNHP. To proceed otherwise would risk legal vulnerability, undermine public trust, and sacrifice irreplaceable natural and community assets for speculative commuter housing.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6311
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Henry Lazarowicz
I&O_6718
I have concerns that impinging on the greenbelt areas around Frodsham would cause irreparable damage to surrounding areas of biodiversity and areas of natural special interest, most notably the ancient woodlands at Hob Hey Wood. Destruction of wildlife habitats and corridors would be inevitable and this would be a great loss, both to the wildlife that depends on this protected status and the community of Frodsham, as a whole.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6412
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Ruth Basden
Question SS 42
I&O_6826
Planners should bear in mind the likely construction of a Solar Farm on Frodsham Marshes in a year or two, means that Frodsham will lose a large area of green space to the north west. It would be a great loss if the green belt land (or even some of it) in FRO01, FRO02 and FRO03 was also lost, this time to housing developments. Only Frodsham Hill would remain as a green space and by its very nature – a steep hill – this area is not accessible to all residents. FRO01 - this site includes Hob Hey Wood which is ancient woodland and therefore it is irreplaceable and should be left untouched. If building were to take place, I doubt that the wood itself would be destroyed, because the stream and the steep sides of the valley would not be good for houses, although from the map, it is not clear whether the wood itself woud be left untouched! But, even if the wood itself is left standing, if houses are built in the fields close to the wood, there will undoubtedly be a big effect on the woodland and all the species living within it and also those that visit it at times eg migrating birds. Also there would most likely be an increase in the number of people walking dogs in the wood and also in the number of cats - predators on birds and small mammals. It would no longer be a safe space. Wildlife corridors would probably be destroyed by the close proximity of housing. Leading down to the wood from Townfield Lane, there is an ancient bridleway (one of Cheshire's 'green lanes') that goes down from Townfield Lane, crosses Hob Hey Wood and the stream (with a bridge) and then goes up to the hamlet of Bradley. This wonderful old drovers' road should be kept and protected, together with the adjacent fields. The bridleway and the wood itself is a quiet green space where local residents can walk and improve both their mental and physical health by contact with nature. Access for cars to and from any new housing in FRO01 would be problematical – Langdale Way is already very busy at times when children are arriving at/leaving Manor House School. Also, in the longer period of the morning rush hour, there is often traffic queueing in Langdale Way to get out onto Fluin Lane, to join the queue for the A56. Direct access from FRO01 to the A56 is blocked by housing along the A56. Access using Townfield Lane to the B5152 is not a good option, as part of it is very narrow. All in all, building on FRO01 is definitely NOT a good option - for all of the reasons listed above, plus extra information from other people.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6451
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Thomas Gorsuch
I&O_6865
Hob Hey Wood is ancient woodland and must be preserved. Any development must not lead to direct or indirect harm
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6453
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Christopher Starkie
Map 5.10
I&O_6867
Regarding FR001 and FR002 the impacts to the local environment will be devastating; removing valuable green belt land and displacing wildlife. One key area of Frodsham enjoyed by many within the aforementioned areas is Hob Hey Wood. This is an ancient woodland with an expensive array of fauna and flora which also provides additional benefits of a natural soakaway preventing flooding in the area. Furthermore, this is a hub for the community with a dedicated team of volunteers coming together to nurture this space which is enjoyed by a wide range of community members. The proposed change will lead to an irreversible destruction of this unique area as such habits formed over centuries cannot be easily recreated. In summary development at the FR001 and FR002 locations should be removed from development plans entirely as the locations are unsuitable.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6468
Received: 28/08/2025
Respondent: Sue Sljivic
I&O_6882
FR01 and FR02 development would be constrained by access, topography, existing development and Hob Hey Wood. These would be a less favoured area for development
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6561
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: John Wharne
I&O_6979
Cheshire has one of the lowest forestry coverage in England - areas FRO01 and FRO02 have the potential to damage Hob Hey Wood - a residue of ancient woodland. These two areas have very poor connectivity to the road system - the existing side roads could not cope with extra traffic. Yes there is a station - with a limited service - and these two areas are quite a distance from it - how much walking would be done?
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6576
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: John Wharne
I&O_6996
Frodsham has limited employment so all the newcomers would be commuters - the A56 road already grinds to a halt when there are problems on the M56. All the current facilities, GP, Shopping, Schools etc are sized for the current population - would money be available to increase them
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6612
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Will Holden
I&O_7032
Traffic flow in Frodsham is already constrained. Particularly the single grossing of the Weaver to the east and the flow of traffic through the town and at the northern end of Fluin Lane. Acidents on the M56 regularly cause issues through Frodsham. Increasing the number of vehicles in the area through increased housing is a poor choice and massive improvements to infrastructure and traffic management would be required.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6804
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Mary Malpeli
MAP5.10 QU SS42
I&O_7235
All of the proposed growth areas in Frodsham are greenbelt land, using this land will have a negative impact on the quality of life of existing residents, adding more traffic and pressure on stretched services. Hob Hey Wood, is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a rare surviving fragment of ancient forest. As a clough woodland (a steep-sided valley typically with a stream), it spans just over 10 acres and offers a mosaic of ecological resilience, cultural continuity, and community engagement. Ancient woodlands are defined as areas continuously forested since at least 1600 AD in England. Evidence suggests that Hob Hey Wood fits this category: it supports characteristic ancient woodland flora such as bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic—commonly seen in the spring bloom—as well as a complex ecosystem that has developed over centuries. Additionally, Frodsham lies within the historic bounds of the medieval Forests of Mara and Mondrem, which once spanned over 60 square miles. Though much of that forest has disappeared, Hob Hey Wood stands as one of the few remnants of this once-vast woodland. Despite its modest size, Hob Hey Wood harbours impressive biodiversity. A conservation effort in 2021 recorded over 400 species—from common plants to the very rare tiered tooth fungus—many of which are typical of ancient woodland. Remarkably, the white-letter hairstreak butterfly, dependent on elm trees, still persists in the wood—a species now extremely rare in Cheshire. In response, volunteers successfully planted a disease-resistant elm to help secure the butterfly’s presence The woodland also supports at least seven bat species, including the rare Nathusius' pipistrelle, along with birdlife such as tawny, little, and barn owls, sparrowhawks, nuthatches, warblers, and more. Community-led Conservation & Education Since its foundation in 2018, the Hob Hey Wood Friends Group—supported by Frodsham Town Council—has played a key role in woodland stewardship. Their efforts include tree planting, path and boardwalk maintenance, invasive species control, biological recording, fencing, signage, and public outreach. In 2023, they logged over 200 volunteer hours, raised funds for path renovation, and celebrated more than 1,000 followers on their Facebook page. The pathways project, fully crowdfunded by early 2024, has helped improve accessibility for both locals and visitors—ensuring safe enjoyment of this ancient woodland. The group also organizes guided nature walks, fungal forays, wildflower discoveries, and bat monitoring events, empowering local residents to connect with the wood’s natural and cultural legacy. Hob Hey Wood stands as a living fragment of Cheshire’s ancient forest, where centuries-old ecological processes continue to unfold. Its rich biodiversity, historical roots, and grassroots stewardship underscore its multifaceted value. Protecting Hob Hey Wood is not just an act of environmental conservation—it is also the preservation of Frodsham’s deep natural heritage and collective memory and should not be threatened by a huge adjacent concrete building plot.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 6971
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Lambert Smith Hampton
I&O_7439
No allowance has been made to understand the urban capacity within the settlement before consideration of new growth areas. Many of the sites in the Neighbourhood Plan are not going to come forward and not deliver the quantum of homes required.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7012
Received: 21/08/2025
Respondent: Sophie Jackson
Map 5.10
I&O_7480
I am wrong to formally lodge my objections to the above named policies and say no to FRO01 and FRO02. The area of Frodsham is surrounded by green belt. This has been put in place not only to protect against never ending building but to protect the flood plains etc. it is protected by law so this building cannot proceed. Frodsham is already oversubscribed in terms of schools, doctors and other essential services; not to mention the roads already struggle for capacity of the traffic. Frodsham cannot take the number of houses that are proposed; the infrastructure is already at breaking point. The increased flood risk is huge resulting in potential damage to properties and definite falling house prices. Building on that land will decrease community and increase pollution in an area that already has enough contaminants due to local factories, incinerators etc. The continued foisting of housing and pollution increasing factors upon our area is disgraceful and cannot continue.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7208
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Diane Kennedy
I&O_7686
I object to building on FRO01 and FRO02. They are two significant parcels of Greenbelt land that border our ancient and necessary Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham's only remaining rural buffer. The ramifications would be disastrous and irreversible. This would: increase flood risk, overload roads, strain local services, destroy vital wildlife routes to name just a few. Objections in detail: Severe impact on Ancient Woodland Hob Hey Wood is a Site of Biological Interest and ancient woodland, Britain's most diverse habitat. The wood is home to thousands of species, varying from common to locally scarce to nationally rare. Over 800 species are listed on the national biological recording site iRecord. Many species occur only in ancient woodland, an increasingly rare habitat. The wood is a haven for both wildlife and local people who enjoying walking through the woodland and enjoying all that nature has to offer for phsical and mental wellbeing. Source: Nature and Mental Health Report - MIND Wildlife Corridors Will Be Destroyed Hob Hey Wood is not just a decorative patch of trees. It is a functioning ecosystem, used by many species that need this access to the surrounding environment. The wood connects to wider habitats through the proposed FRO01 and FRO02 areas. These corridors keep the ecology alive and must be defended. Building here would break these links irrevocably. Source: Planning Inspectorate – https://nsip-documents.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/published-documents/EN010153-000069-6.1_ES%20Vol%201%20Chapter%207%20Terrestrial%20Ecology.pdf Significant Disturbance to The Woodland Hob Hey is relatively secluded. Building hundreds of houses nearby could lead to significant disturbance of the woodland and its wildlife. The resulting huge increase in pets would result in problems. Cats are supreme predators which would take a toll on wildlife. Dogs would also disturb wildlife and their feces have been shown to cause nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/07/dog-pee-and-poo-harming-nature-reserves-study Flood Risk is Not a Hypothetical Surface water flooding is the biggest threat to homes in England today. Over 4.6 million homes are now at risk from it. That’s double the number at risk from rivers or coastal surge. In Frodsham, those risks already exist. Hob Hey Wood and the green land around it act as a sponge. They slow rain and reduce flood peaks. Building on FR002 and FR001 means water runs off faster, overloading drains and pushing into homes and roads. The council’s own Flood Risk Assessment warns against removing these natural barriers. From the late 1990’s to 2005 this happened in Langdale Way! Residents experienced multiple sewerage floods leading to a campaign involving both the council and United Utilities to resolve the issue before the houses became uninsurable. This resulted in a year long disruptive excavation at Manor House School fields to install huge tanks to stem the catastrophic floods. UU stated that this was the only site that that type of construction could take place. House building adjacent could result in these issues arising again! Source: Cheshire West SFRA – https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/documents/parking-roads-and-travel/highways/flood-risk-assessment-final-report.pdf Source: Financial Times – https://www.ft.com/content/ff3bb769-9339-4015-80bc-4a3ea446504e
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7360
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Nichola Starkie
I&O_7840
Regarding building on FR001 and FR002, the impact to the local environment will be devastating; removing valuable green belt land and displacing wildlife. One key area of Frodsham enjoyed by many within the aforementioned areas is Hob Hey Wood. This is an ancient woodland with an expensive array of fauna and flora which also provides additional benefits of a natural soakaway preventing flooding in the area. Furthermore, this is a hub for the community with a dedicated team of volunteers coming together to nurture this space which is enjoyed by a wide range of community members. The proposed change will lead to an irreversible destruction of this unique area as such habits formed over centuries cannot be easily recreated. Building on these sites will also strain local services and overload roads. The A56 and main roads through Frodsham are regularly gridlocked, particularly when traffic is diverted due to M56 closure. Add hundreds of extra vehicles from FR001 and FR002 and the problem gets worse. There is also no spare capacity in Frodsham infratstructure; GP practices are running at their limit, schools are close to capacity, and NHS dentists are full with at least a year waitinglist. In summary, I strongly reject the proposal to build on FR001 and FR002 as the location is unsuitable.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7418
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Emma Cawley
I&O_7898
we have a direct objection to growth areas FRO01 and FRO02. These are two parcels of greenbelt land that border Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham's only remaining rural buffer. It increases flood risk, overloads roads, strains local services, and perhaps most importantly, destroys wildlife routes and habitats. Hib Hey Wood is home to thousands of species, varying from common to locally scarce, to nationally rare. Over 800 species are listed on the national biological recording site, iRecord. Many species only occur in ancient woodland, an incrasingly rare habitat. Hob Hey Wood is not a decorative patch of trees, it is a functioning woodland used by many species.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7471
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Katherine Hague
I&O_7951
All these areas are used by local people as green belt land
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7475
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Amy Gittins
I&O_7955
Yes, don’t build on FRO01 and FRO02. This is not a polite suggestion. It is a firm and direct objection to building on FR001 and FR002, two parcels of Greenbelt land that border Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham’s only remaining rural buffer. This proposal is a textbook example of poor planning: it increases flood risk, overloads roads, strains local services, destroys wildlife routes, and rips up national policy. If approved, it will damage the town and everyone in it. Objections in detail Severe Impact on Ancient Woodland Hob Hey is a Site of Biological Interest and ancient woodland, Britain’s most biodiverse habitat. The wood is home to thousands of species varying from common, to locally scarce, to nationally rare. Over 800 species are listed on the national biological recording site iRecord. Many species only occur in ancient woodland, an increasingly rare habitat. The wood is a haven for both wildlife and local people who enjoy walking the woodland and reaping the benefits of being in nature such as reduced anxiety and depression. Improvements to the immune system and reduced blood pressure also result from time spent in nature. Source: Nature and Mental Health Report’, Mind. Source: (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9665958/). Wildlife Corridors Will Be Destroyed Hob Hey Wood is not a decorative patch of trees. It is a functioning woodland used by many species that need access to the surrounding environment. The wood connects to wider habitat corridors through the FR001 and FR002 areas. These corridors keep the ecology alive. Building here breaks those links forever. You can’t replace a hedgerow or regenerate a breeding ground once it’s buried under concrete. Source: Planning Inspectorate – https://nsip-documents.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/published-documents/EN010153-000069-6.1_ES%20Vol%201%20Chapter%207%20Terrestrial%20Ecology.pdf Significant Disturbance to The Woodland Hob Hey is relatively secluded. Building hundreds of houses nearby could lead to significant disturbance of the woodland and its wildlife. The resulting huge increase in pets would result in problems. Cats are supreme predators which would take a toll on wildlife. Dogs would also disturb wildlife and their faeces have been shown to cause nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/07/dog-pee-and-poo-harming-nature-reserves-study Flood Risk is Not a Hypothetical Surface water flooding is the biggest threat to homes in England today. Over 4.6 million homes are now at risk from it. That’s double the number at risk from rivers or coastal surge. In Frodsham, those risks already exist. Hob Hey Wood and the green land around it act as a sponge. They slow rain and reduce flood peaks. Building on FR002 and FR001 means water runs off faster, overloading drains and pushing into homes and roads. The council’s own Flood Risk Assessment warns against removing these natural barriers. From the late 1990’s to 2005 this happened in Langdale Way! Residents experienced multiple sewerage floods leading to a campaign involving both the council and United Utilities to resolve the issue before the houses became uninsurable. This resulted in a year long disruptive excavation at Manor House School fields to install huge tanks to stem the catastrophic floods. UU stated that this was the only site that that type of construction could take place. House building adjacent could result in these issues arising again! Source: Cheshire West SFRA – https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/documents/parking-roads-and-travel/highways/flood-risk-assessment-final-report.pdf Source: Financial Times – https://www.ft.com/content/ff3bb769-9339-4015-80bc-4a3ea446504e
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7481
Received: 29/08/2025
Respondent: Mark Gittins
I&O_7961
Yes, don’t build on FRO01 and FRO02. This submission is a firm and direct objection to building on FR001 and FR002, two parcels of Greenbelt land that border Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham’s only remaining rural buffer. This proposal is a textbook example of poor planning: it increases flood risk, overloads roads, strains local services, destroys wildlife routes, and rips up national policy. If approved, it will damage the town and everyone in it. Objections in detail Severe Impact on Ancient Woodland Hob Hey is a Site of Biological Interest and ancient woodland, Britain’s most biodiverse habitat. The wood is home to thousands of species varying from common, to locally scarce, to nationally rare. Over 800 species are listed on the national biological recording site iRecord. Many species only occur in ancient woodland, an increasingly rare habitat. The wood is a haven for both wildlife and local people who enjoy walking the woodland and reaping the benefits of being in nature such as reduced anxiety and depression. Improvements to the immune system and reduced blood pressure also result from time spent in nature. Source: Nature and Mental Health Report’, Mind. Source: ( https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9665958/ ). Wildlife Corridors Will Be Destroyed Hob Hey Wood is not a decorative patch of trees. It is a functioning woodland used by many species that need access to the surrounding environment. The wood connects to wider habitat corridors through the FR001 and FR002 areas. These corridors keep the ecology alive. Building here breaks those links forever. You can’t replace a hedgerow or regenerate a breeding ground once it’s buried under concrete. Source: Planning Inspectorate – https://nsip-documents.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/published-documents/EN010153-000069-6.1_ES%20Vol%201%20Chapter%207%20Terrestrial%20Ecology.pdf Significant Disturbance to The Woodland: Hob Hey is relatively secluded. Building hundreds of houses nearby could lead to significant disturbance of the woodland and its wildlife. The resulting huge increase in pets would result in problems. Cats are supreme predators which would take a toll on wildlife. Dogs would also disturb wildlife and their faeces have been shown to cause nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/07/dog-pee-and-poo-harming-nature-reserves-study Flood Risk is Not a Hypothetical Surface water flooding is the biggest threat to homes in England today. Over 4.6 million homes are now at risk from it. That’s double the number at risk from rivers or coastal surge. In Frodsham, those risks already exist. Hob Hey Wood and the green land around it act as a sponge. They slow rain and reduce flood peaks. Building on FR002 and FR001 means water runs off faster, overloading drains and pushing into homes and roads. The council’s own Flood Risk Assessment warns against removing these natural barriers. From the late 1990’s to 2005 this happened in Langdale Way! Residents experienced multiple sewerage floods leading to a campaign involving both the council and United Utilities to resolve the issue before the houses became uninsurable. This resulted in a year long disruptive excavation at Manor House School fields to install huge tanks to stem the catastrophic floods. UU stated that this was the only site that that type of construction could take place. House building adjacent could result in these issues arising again! Source: Cheshire West SFRA – https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/documents/parking-roads-and-travel/highways/flood-risk-assessment-final-report.pdf Source: Financial Times – https://www.ft.com/content/ff3bb769-9339-4015-80bc-4a3
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7562
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Tom Finchett
I&O_8049
I object to the following policy SS42
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7567
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Kathy Leadbetter
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8054
NPPF : Does not comply with the National Planning Policy Framework. Paragraph 137–140 states that Green Belt land should only be developed in “exceptional circumstances.”
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7573
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Kathy Leadbetter
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8060
Housebuilding on green belt land (FRO01 and FRO02) would have serious detrimental effects for the town, its residents, and nature (specifically Hob Hey Wood). I do not believe that house building on FRO01 and FRO02 is a suitable solution for the demand for more houses and other areas should be chosen instead.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7575
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Susan Ford
I&O_8062
I strongly disagree with the planning permission for the green belt in the Frodsham area Ss42 This is an outside area for wildlife conservation and gives lots of pleasure and information to not just local people but visitors from the surrounding areas plus schools. Has a resident of Frodsham I already have problems getting appointments with doctors and dentists. I have neighbours who find it difficult to get their children into local schools Our roads are congested constantly especially if there is a problem on the M56 we have potholes on every road we really don’t need more congestion. Please take my concerns and that of my neighbours seriously Thank you
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7576
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Susan Ford
I&O_8063
I strongly disagree with the planning permission for the green belt in the Frodsham area Ss43 This is an outside area for wildlife conservation and gives lots of pleasure and information to not just local people but visitors from the surrounding areas plus schools. Has a resident of Frodsham I already have problems getting appointments with doctors and dentists. I have neighbours who find it difficult to get their children into local schools Our roads are congested constantly especially if there is a problem on the M56 we have potholes on every road we really don’t need more congestion. Please take my concerns and that of my neighbours seriously Thank you
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7603
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Dianne Dawson
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8090
Severe impact on ancient woodland Wildlife corridors will be destroyed Significant disturbance to the woodland Flood risk
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7622
Received: 23/08/2025
Respondent: Mr Paul Wintle
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8109
Of the three areas identified, FRO01 FRO02 are completely unsuitable. Proposing FRO01 and FRO02 is a terrible idea. It adds pressure to failing infrastructure. It increases flood risk. It destroys wildlife corridors. It worsens air quality. It lowers property values. It puts lives at risk. It benefits developers and damages communities. This is not sustainable. It is not justified. It is not acceptable. This would cover a large area of greenbelt and greenfield land and create a huge conurbation not fit for the services and infrastructure presently in place. Do not build on FRO01 and FRO02. This is not a polite suggestion. It is a firm and direct objection to building on FR001 and FR002, two parcels of Greenbelt land that border Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham’s only remaining rural buffer. This proposal is a textbook example of poor planning: it increases flood risk, overloads roads, strains local services, destroys wildlife routes, and rips up national policy. If approved, it will damage the town and everyone in it.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7623
Received: 23/08/2025
Respondent: Mr Paul Wintle
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8110
Severe Impact on Ancient Woodland Hob Hey is a Site of Biological Interest and ancient woodland, Britain’s most biodiverse habitat. The wood is home to thousands of species varying from common, to locally scarce, to nationally rare. Over 800 species are listed on the national biological recording site iRecord. Many species only occur in ancient woodland, an increasingly rare habitat. The wood is a haven for both wildlife and local people who enjoy walking the woodland and reaping the benefits of being in nature such as reduced anxiety and depression. Improvements to the immune system and reduced blood pressure also result from time spent in nature. Source: Nature and Mental Health Report’, Mind. Source: ( https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9665958/ ). Wildlife Corridors Will Be Destroyed Hob Hey Wood is not a decorative patch of trees. It is a functioning woodland used by many species that need access to the surrounding environment. The wood connects to wider habitat corridors through the FR001 and FR002 areas. These corridors keep the ecology alive. Building here breaks those links forever. You can’t replace a hedgerow or regenerate a breeding ground once it’s buried under concrete. Source: Planning Inspectorate – https://nsip-documents.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/... Significant Disturbance to The Woodland Hob Hey is relatively secluded. Building hundreds of houses nearby could lead to significant disturbance of the woodland and its wildlife. The resulting huge increase in pets would result in problems. Cats are supreme predators which would take a toll on wildlife. Dogs would also disturb wildlife and their feces have been shown to cause nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/.../dog-pee-and-poo-harming ... Flood Risk is Not a Hypothetical Surface water flooding is the biggest threat to homes in England today. Over 4.6 million homes are now at risk from it. That’s double the number at risk from rivers or coastal surge. In Frodsham, those risks already exist. Hob Hey Wood and the green land around it act as a sponge. They slow rain and reduce flood peaks. Building on FR002 and FR001 means water runs off faster, overloading drains and pushing into homes and roads. The council’s own Flood Risk Assessment warns against removing these natural barriers. From the late 1990s to 2005, this happened in Langdale Way. Residents experienced multiple sewerage floods leading to a campaign involving both the council and United Utilities to resolve the issue before the houses became uninsurable. This resulted in a year-long disruptive excavation at Manor House School fields to install huge tanks to stem the catastrophic floods. UU stated that this was the only site that that type of construction could take place. House building adjacent could result in these issues arising again. Source: Cheshire West SFRA – https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/documents/parking-roads-and-travel/highways/flood-risk-assessment-final-report.pdf Source: Financial Times – https://www.ft.com/.../ff3bb769-9339-4015-80bc-4a3ea446504e Also don't build on FRO03. This would create a huge conurbation between Frodsham and Helsby, creating a ribbon development. Frodsham and Helsby have distinct characters and do not deserve to have their rich characters absorbed into a single entity because they are near to present infrastructure which are already often unable to cope. Indeed, the infrastructure and services are unsuitable, and there are no proposals for further services or road infrastructure planned.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7624
Received: 23/08/2025
Respondent: Mr Paul Wintle
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8111
do not build on FRO01 and FRO02. This is not a polite suggestion. It is a firm and direct objection to building on FR001 and FR002, two parcels of Greenbelt land that border Hob Hey Wood and form part of Frodsham’s only remaining rural buffer. This proposal is a textbook example of poor planning: it increases flood risk, overloads roads, strains local services, destroys wildlife routes, and rips up national policy. If approved, it will damage the town and everyone in it.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7627
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: Emma Brown
I&O_8114
I am emailing to object to policies SS41, SS42 and SS43, my reasoning being frodsham will be grid locked, we need fields in the area , strains on GPS and dentists and schools. Will also lower house prices.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7630
Received: 23/08/2025
Respondent: Julie Hibbert
FRO01, FRO02
I&O_8117
Object to the following- SS41, SS42 and SS43 Hob Hey Wood - We have enough houses in our county area and one of the reasons I moved to this area was the countryside around us. This is slowly being destroyed by lots of house building and destroying the wildlife and nature that thrive here. We are overstretched with dentists, doctors, schools as it is and this would be disastrous to all.
Comment
Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)
Representation ID: 7657
Received: 22/08/2025
Respondent: R Warburton
I&O_8144
Objection to Proposed Development in Frodsham FRO01, FRO02 A Detailed Case Against Expansion Cheshire West's proposed development plans involve extensive housebuilding in Frodsham, on areas surrounded by protected countryside and Green Belt. This objection details the reasons such development should not proceed, focusing on breaches of planning policy, environmental harm, infrastructure constraints, and the risk of altering the local landscape forever. Green Belt Policy and National Planning Framework The Green Belt around Frodsham is designed to prevent urban sprawl and safeguard natural countryside. Development here is only permitted under 'exceptional circumstances', which have not been demonstrated in this instance. Local Neighbourhood Strategy and Sustainability Frodsham's Neighbourhood Plan-created and approved with local involvement-shows that the town's housing needs can be met without building on the Green Belt. The plan underscores the importance of preserving open fields and green corridors. Wildlife, Ecology, and Landscape Impact The proposed development would break up habitats, threaten protected species, and violate legal obligations to maintain biodiversity. Frodsham is close to critical ecological sites, and the Local Plan Part Two outlines stringent protections for these areas. Infrastructure and Overload Risk Local infrastructure-roads, schools, and GP practices-is already under strain. Additional homes would increase the pressure, and currently, there is no confirmed plan to improve or expand these services. Transport and Settlement Identity Although Frodsham has a train station, transport links are limited and no upgrades are planned to accommodate large population growth. Historic Character and Community Value The proposed expansion would undermine the historic and community character of Frodsham, cherished for its market town atmosphere, local green spaces, and scenic views. Final Statement: The Green Belt serves a crucial purpose. These development proposals are contrary to policy, unnecessary, and pose a risk to the long-term quality of life in Frodsham. Key Objections to Development near and around Hob Hey Wood (FRO1 and FRO02) • Objection: Development on FRO01 and FRO02 is strongly opposed due to increased flood risk, heavier road traffic, pressure on local services, fragmentation of wildlife routes, and violation of national policy. • Traffic Issues: The A56 and other main roads through Frodsham are already congested, and further development would worsen the problem, even affecting emergency response times. Townfield Lane is already heavily blocked by residents parking, creating only single lane passage, restricting access and limiting the ability of emergency vehicles to pass safely through. This area cannot manage any further traffic increases. Impact on Ancient Woodland: Hob Hey Wood, an ancient woodland and recorded as a Site of Biological Interest in 1992, would suffer greatly. Home to thousands of species, the wood provides both ecological and mental health benefits. For over 100 years there have been significant badger setts within the wood, nesting owls, and areas covered by native English bluebells. Ancient woodland cover is now only 2.4% in Britain; a fraction of what it once was. Frodsham's ancient woodland is now owned by Frodsham Town Council, protected as a Field in Trust, and looked after by Hob Hey Wood Friends Group, which was to ensure that it remains an extremely important asset for the people of Frodsham to enjoy for many years to come. • Destruction of Wildlife Corridors: The planned development would remove essential wildlife corridors connected to Hob Hey Wood, which are vital for local biodiversity. • Disturbance to Woodland: Housing built close to the woodland would disturb habitats and wildlife, with domestic pets posing further risks. • Flood Risk: The development would increase the chance of surface water flooding, a problem already noted in the area. The council's own Flood Risk Assessment advises against removing natural barriers. • Infrastructure Strain: Local GPs and schools are full, and the new development would stretch them further-without any clear plans for new public services. • Air Quality and Light Pollution: More development would mean poorer air quality and more light pollution, harming both wildlife and people. • Antisocial Behaviour and Isolation: Estates built without proper integration risk social fragmentation and increased antisocial behaviour. • House Prices: Removing the natural features that give existing homes their value is likely to reduce property prices. • Green Belt Importance: The Green Belt should remain intact-there are alternatives available. Breaching it here sets a dangerous precedent.