Issue - meetings

The comments of the Area Committee are sought on the proposals before the Council formally responds to the proposals.

Officer Contact: Emma Curle on 0161 474 3542 or email: emma.curle@stockport.gov.uk

In respect of plan no. 73460  for a hybrid planning application proposing a new mixed-use settlement for the Garden Village at Handforth comprising two parts:-

 (1) Outline planning application, including: demolition works (unspecified); around 1500 new homes (class C3); new employment uses (class B1 & B2); new mixed-use local (village) centre (classes A1-A5 inclusive, B1(a), C1, C2, C3, D1 & D2); new green infrastructure; and associated infrastructure. All detailed matters (appearance, means of access, landscaping, layout & scale) reserved for subsequent approval.

(2) Full planning application for initial preparation and infrastructure works (IPIW), including: ground remediation, re-profiling and preparation works; highway works; drainage works; utilities works; replacement A34 bridge works: green infrastructure works; and other associated infrastructure.

The following comments were made/issues raised:-

• Members of the Area Committee had strong reservations about the proposals.
• Concern was expressed how Cheshire East Council proposed to mitigate the effect on air quality and traffic congestion for the residents of Stockport, given the size of the development.
• Concern was expressed in relation to the impact of the proposed development on the highway network within Stockport, and with particular regard to the A34. At the start of the process when the proposals were first mooted, the Council was advised that the planning application would include reference to funding for a major scheme to address the traffic problems at the junction of Kingsway and Gatley Road, Gatley.

RESOLVED – That the Corporate Director for Place Management and Regeneration be requested to incorporate the Area Committee’s comments in the Council’s formal response to the adjoining authority consultation.