Local Plan Issues and Options (Regulation 18)

Comment

Representation ID: 14617

Received: 29/08/2025

Respondent: Bloor Homes, Diane Martin, Peter Martin & Brunel Trustees Limited

Agent: Emery Planning Partnership

NOR10
I&O_15167
Highways infrastructure relevant to the proposed allocation of Weaverham South (Growth option: NOR10) is discussed in the Sustainable Transport Strategy report by Eddisons (see Appendix EP2 of these representations).(see attachment)

Comment

Representation ID: 14618

Received: 29/08/2025

Respondent: Bloor Homes, Diane Martin, Peter Martin & Brunel Trustees Limited

Agent: Emery Planning Partnership

I&O_15168
Yes. In the current adopted Local Plan, Northwich is defined as the town of Northwich and adjacent settlements of Anderton, Barnton, Davenham, Hartford, Lostock Gralam, Lower Marston, Lower Wincham, Rudheath and Weaverham. Having regard to the strategic importance of Northwich, the close physical, social and economic interrelationship of the constituent settlements, and their combined population and service provision, Northwich should continue to be defined as it is in the current adopted Local Plan. It can be noted that this matter was considered in detail through the examination of the Local Plan Part 1. The Inspector’s report stated at paragraph 118: “118. For strategic purposes the Plan considers Northwich to consist of the town itself along with a number of adjacent settlements . This follows on from the principle established in the Vale Royal Borough Local Plan. In preparing the Plan, the Council has taken the opportunity to review the settlements concerned and concluded that Cuddington and Sandiway is more appropriately identified as a separate Key Service Centre given its function, level of services and the physical separation from Northwich. It has also concluded that Moulton and Higher Wincham should not be included as part of Northwich given the degree of physical separation from the town. I consider that the Council’s approach is justified. It reflects the physical and functional relationships between the town and surrounding settlements and results in a logical definition of Northwich for strategic purposes. ” (our emphasis) Our client’s specific interest is at Weaverham. The Local Plan Part 1 Inspector concluded at paragraph 120 of his report: 120. I consider that whilst Weaverham is separated from the town of Northwich by Green Belt, it is closely related physically and functionally and is appropriately included within the definition of the wider built up area .” (our emphasis) There have been no significant changes in circumstances which suggest that a radically different approach would be appropriate for the new Local Plan, particularly in light of the significant increase in local housing need and the continued need for Northwich to accommodate development through the emerging Local Plan.

Comment

Representation ID: 14619

Received: 29/08/2025

Respondent: Bloor Homes, Diane Martin, Peter Martin & Brunel Trustees Limited

Agent: Emery Planning Partnership

NOR10
I&O_15169
Homes is promoting Weaverham South, which is identified within the consultation as growth option NOR10. Bloor Homes propose the site as an allocation for residential development. The site can deliver approximately 900-1,100 dwellings, as well as extensive green infrastructure, community facilities and (if required) land for the expansion of the adjacent Weaverham High School. Weaverham South represents a highly sustainable location that offers an exceptional opportunity for meeting housing needs in Northwich and Cheshire West. The site is in single ownership, under sole control of Bloor Homes and is subject to an exceptionally low level of constraint. The site is flat, subject to a very high level of visual containment, predominantly of low ecological value, and suitable access is readily available. These representations are accompanied by a comprehensive vision document (Appendix EP1) which has been prepared by Planit on behalf of Bloor Homes. The vision document provides: • An analysis of the site and its surroundings; • A masterplan and vision that articulates and illustrates the opportunities presented by the site; • A demonstration that the site is deliverable, available and achievable; and • A summary of the key benefits of the site. These representations are also supported by supporting technical statements in respect of the following matters: • Sustainable Transport Strategy report by Eddisons (Appendix EP2) • Landscape and Visual Technical Note by FPCR (Appendix EP3) • Ecological Feasibility Assessment report by UES (Appendix EP4) • Technical Note on Flood Risk and Drainage by Betts Associates (Appendix EP5) Further of details of the site and the proposed allocation are provided below.(see attachment)