More than 120 homes are set to be erected on the former Eddie Stobart depot site in Chelford, despite only 60 properties being laid out in the original plans. The news comes after it was decided that the initial number was ‘commercially unviable’.
In spite of the increased figure, Kath Gildon, chairperson of the Chelford Parish Council, believes that the villagers will continue to support the plans.
“To achieve a commercially viable scheme, a larger proportion of housing is required to subsidise the development costs and planning obligations required of the development.
“This requires development of the whole ESG site including the parts of the site which lie within the Green Belt.”
Eddie Stobart reportedly cut the property number to 60 – including 10 cost-effective homes – in a bid to protect greenbelt land. The update, however, will see this space used, with a number of two and five-bed properties set to be built.
In a report compiled by planning consultant firm Turley Associates for Cheshire East Council, it was claimed that more houses are needed in the area and that the increase was necessary.
Chelford’s residents have so far supported the plans, with most feeling that they will breathe new life into the area and enable young people to stay.
The population in Chelford has decreased in recent years, and it is thought that this could’ve been a result of young families being forced to leave for other regions.
No doubt the new plans will lead to increases in demand for tradesmen, such as joiners, in Cheshire.
