Controversial plans for 40 homes at Lyme Green have been recommended for approval after a planning inspector over-ruled Cheshire East's previous refusal for 42 properties on the site.

The council's strategic planning board was unanimous in refusing an application in October 2022 for a 'cramped' 42 home-scheme on land west of London Road and south of Gaw End Lane on the grounds of over-development.

A planning inspector didn't agree and upheld the applicant's appeal.

Morris Homes and the trustees of the Lyme Green Settlement have since submitted a new scheme for 40 homes and this will be decided by the strategic planning board on Wednesday.

In a report due to go to that meeting, the case officer states: "This application proposes a scheme of 40 dwellings and the provision of on-site public open space, which the appeal scheme did not."

The officer adds: "The proposal achieves an appropriately designed residential development and would not materially harm neighbouring residential amenity and would provide sufficient amenity for the new occupants.

"Mitigation for the impact of the proposal on local infrastructure including education, open space and provision for recreation outdoor sports would be secured as part of a S106 legal agreement."

The proposal is for four one-bed homes, six two-bed, 17 three bed and 13 four-bedroom houses.

Thirty per cent would be affordable.

The council's housing officer has objected to the application citing a number of reasons relating to the affordable provision, including wanting clarification over the bedroom sizes.

Sutton Parish Council has also objected on a number of grounds including the proposed site layout does not address the reasons for refusal, highways safety concerns and the site layout is still cramped despite the inclusion of the play area.

Sixteen residents have objected.

Among their arguments are claims more houses are not needed because several large developments are being built in Macclesfield, concerns over the impact on Danes Moss and the lack of infrastructure.

In recommending the application for approval, subject to S106 contributions of £81,713 towards education, £11,800 towards Macclesfield Leisure Centre plus open space contributions, the council's planning officer states: "The proposal would bring environmental, economic and social benefits and is therefore considered to be acceptable."

The strategic planning board meeting takes place at Macclesfield Town Hall, Market Place at 10am on Wednesday, March 27.