A developer is looking to push ahead with plans to build on Macclesfield's green belt.

Turley, on behalf of Bloor Homes, has submitted an appeal against Cheshire East Council's Strategic Planning Board's decision to block new homes on Prestbury Road.

The proposals were refused by the committee in September amid concerns that such a development would harm the local landscape.

However, Bloor maintain that the land should be classed as grey belt as aligns with Labour's 'golden rules', does not make a strong contribution to the relevant green belt purposes,  and is 'sustainably located' on the edge of Macclesfield.

Toby Hudson, strategic land director at Bloor Homes, said: "This application is a perfect example of what the new government has asked for through its introduction of grey belt to help build 1.5 million new homes in this parliament.

"We believe Bloor is setting the example for how sustainable grey belt development should be brought forward, yet still committee members have chosen to vote against their own officers' recommendation to approve this application."

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Objectors filled Macclesfield Town Hall for the meeting on Thursday, September 11 (Credit: LDRS)

Bloor is seeking outline planning permission to deliver up to 90 new 'affordable' homes and up to 110 new 'market' homes.

They claim this will help Cheshire East meet its housing shortfall.

In addition, Bloor say they will create better links to the Bollin Valley leisure routes and support critical infrastructure in Macclesfield, including the hospital.

Mr Hudson added: "Objections to the application have come almost exclusively from nearby residents, many of whom are fortunate enough to own their own homes already.

"Bloor acknowledges these concerns and has ensured the proposals offer significant benefits to the local community. 

"These include new walking and cycling routes, enhanced bus services, and access to new public green spaces right on the doorstep."

The site location off Prestbury Road in Macclesfield (Turley)

The site location off Prestbury Road in Macclesfield (Credit: Turley)

Mr Hudson continued: "We look forward to making our case to the planning inspectorate, supported by the council's own officer report.

"We want to bring growth and new life to Macclesfield and we are confident that ultimately the application will be determined in favour of the delivery of much needed new homes."