Developers are to consider their next steps after seeing proposals for a 200-home development in Macclesfield turned down.

On Thursday, September 11, Cheshire East's strategic planning board went against planning officers' advice and refused an application to build on green belt land off Prestbury Road.

It was felt such a development would be 'inappropriate' as the plot fails to meet the definition of grey belt, with no special circumstances to outweigh this harm.

The applicant, Bloor Homes, say they will now consider this decision and review their options.

A spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that the Prestbury Road application has not been approved.

"Bloor Homes remains committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable homes in Macclesfield, including a significant number of affordable properties.

"We will carefully review the council's decision and consider next steps."

READ MORE: Council turns down controversial plans for 200 homes on Macclesfield green belt

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

More than 470 people objected to the plans submitted by Bloor Homes.

Macclesfield Town Council, the CPRE countryside charity and Cheshire East councillors Judy Snowball, Emma Gilman and David Edwardes also raised concerns about the application.

Speaking as a visiting councillor, councillor Snowball told the committee: "We have an existing local plan, and the development of this land is not in it.

"It is green belt. Once it's gone, it's gone forever.

In a statement read out at the meeting councillord Edwardes and Gilman said: "Prestbury Road is a death trap. Poor visibility, a blind bend… That is the access you're being asked to approve…

"Make no bones about this, an accident will happen. This is not about convenience, it's about life and death."

Tim Roca has welcomed the committee's decision (Credit: Tim Roca)

In the end, six councillors voted for refusal, one voted against and one abstained.

The news was welcomed by Macclesfield MP Tim Roca.

He said: "I am grateful to the committee for their decision, which I believe is the right one.

"While more housing is certainly needed, it must be delivered in the right places.

"I continue to believe there is greater scope to develop more properties in our town centres, which would not only help meet housing demand but also boost local businesses and strengthen our high streets.

"We must also prioritise the use of brownfield sites.

"While these can sometimes be more challenging to develop, with the right determination I am confident we can succeed and deliver the housing that is needed for families in our community."