Macclesfield's MP fears a proposed development in Adlington could open a 'back door' to a new town.

In September, Belport, the firm behind the Adlington New Town proposals, revealed plans for a development of 1,275 homes known as 'Adlington Park'.

Having previously said he was 'deeply sceptical' about the project, Tim Roca MP has now confirmed his official opposition.

The Macclesfield MP has raised concerns about the destruction of agricultural land, inadequate infrastructure and the developer's long-term plans for the site.

Mr Roca said: "I fought alongside residents against the proposed Adlington New Town, and together we helped stop those plans.

"We now face Belport's proposal for approximately 1,275 homes at Adlington Park.

"Having listened carefully to constituents and examined the answers provided by the developer, I cannot support it.

"Over recent months, I have spoken to residents, conducted my own survey and written directly to households neighbouring the site and across Adlington.

"I have heard from people with a range of views and taken time to consider the proposals carefully. A development that would change this community for generations deserves proper scrutiny.

"Throughout this process, I have been clear that it is for Belport to make the case for developing its land and answer the questions residents have raised.

"Its recent response to my questions has reinforced my concerns, particularly about the prospect of further development beyond the current proposal.

"Belport has confirmed that it is promoting additional land within its wider ownership for housing through Cheshire East Council's emerging Local Plan. Although it says the Adlington Park application would be considered on its own merits, that does not answer the wider question about its ambitions for Adlington.

"This does not mean further development is inevitable. However, it gives me serious concern that Adlington Park could become the first stage of something much larger, opening the door to a new town by the back door. Residents deserve clarity about the full extent of what is being proposed for their community."

Mr Roca continued: "The consequences could be profound: the permanent loss of agricultural land, pressure on farming livelihoods, and damage to the countryside, habitats and wildlife that make this area special.

"I am also unconvinced that the infrastructure needed to support approximately 1,275 homes would be delivered where and when it is needed, let alone the infrastructure required for any subsequent expansion.

"Belport's responses leave significant questions unresolved about roads, public transport, healthcare, flood risk and the affordability of the homes themselves.

"Many assessments are still being prepared. The case for a development of this scale has not been made."

Mr Roca added: "We do need more homes. Families across Macclesfield tell me they cannot afford to remain close to their parents, grandparents and support networks. Their need for decent, affordable housing must be taken seriously.

"That means pursuing suitable opportunities on brownfield land and through town centre regeneration, supported by the infrastructure and services communities need.

"I want developers to bring forward credible proposals that meet local housing needs and help revitalise our towns, including pocket developments that give young people a first option to buy homes in the area that they have grown up in.

"My opposition to Adlington Park follows careful consideration of residents' views, the proposals and Belport's answers.

"I do not believe this is the right development for Adlington, and I will make that objection clear to Cheshire East Council when a planning application is submitted."