A council decision has been overturned, paving the way for around 200 new homes on supposedly 'grey belt land' in Macclesfield.

The Planning Inspectorate has upheld Bloor Homes' case for development at Prestbury Road, overturning Cheshire East Council's refusal and granting outline planning permission.

The council's Strategic Planning Board refused the application back in September 2025, with more than 470 residents objecting to the scheme.

However, after a hearing and a site visit by the Planning Inspectorate, the developer's appeal has now been upheld, with the site having been deemed to meet the criteria to be classed as 'grey belt land'.

Toby Hudson, strategic land director at Bloor Homes, said: "We are delighted that the Planning Inspector has recognised the significant benefits that this scheme will bring to Macclesfield and has overturned the Council's decision to refuse the application.

"It is now almost a year since the application was rejected by committee despite receiving a recommendation for approval from the Council's own planning officers. Throughout that time we have remained confident that the scheme represented a sustainable and well-considered response to Macclesfield's growing housing needs.

"The Inspector's decision will enable the delivery of around 200 high-quality new homes, including a substantial proportion of affordable housing, alongside meaningful investment in local infrastructure, public transport, green spaces and active travel connections.

"We would like to thank everyone who engaged constructively throughout the planning process. We now look forward to working with Cheshire East Council and local stakeholders as the project progresses towards delivery."

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The Planning Inspector agree with Bloor Homes that the site comprises 'grey belt' land and concluded that the proposed development is not inappropriate development in the Green Belt, claiming that the site does not make a strong contribution to the relevant Green Belt purposes.

The Inspector also confirmed that the Section 106 planning obligation securing the development's contributions meets national planning policy and the relevant Community Infrastructure Levy tests.

This includes provision for 45% affordable housing, public open space, public transport and highways improvements, education, healthcare and recreation contributions, and improved walking and cycling connections.

With outline planning permission now secured, Bloor Homes will begin the next stage of the planning process by bringing forward reserved matters applications to determine the detailed design of the scheme, including the appearance of the homes, landscaping, public spaces and wider layout.

Macclesfield MP Tim Roca and the Save Macclesfield Greenbelt campaign group have been approached for comment.