Local MP, David Rutley, has expressed his disappointment that there will be a delay in finalising the Local Plan for Cheshire East. He is now calling on Cheshire East Council to take the steps needed to complete this task over the next few months and work to continue to protect the Green Belt in our local communities.
David believes that it is essential for a clear pathway to be established to get a Local Plan approved as soon as possible. He recognises that a Local Plan is vital in stopping unwanted speculative development schemes in and around Macclesfield and to put in place much needed protections for the local Green Belt.
The announcement about the delay in the Cheshire East Local Plan has raised concerns that there could now be more pressure for additional housing developments on the Green Belt in local communities in the years ahead. David is working with Cheshire East Council to ensure that the process to establish Neighbourhood Plans in local towns and villages is now accelerated to better protect these important communities.
David has asked for an urgent meeting with Brandon Lewis MP, the Housing and Planning Minister, to determine how best to expedite the Cheshire East Local Plan process and to support the creation of Neighbourhood Plans in local communities.
On hearing the latest news, David said “Our beautiful countryside helps define our local communities and it is vital that the Green Belt is preserved. The Green Belt was originally created to stop urban sprawl and to ensure that local communities can keep their distinct identities. That aim remains just as relevant today, if not more so.”
David went on to say, "I will continue to actively campaign with local residents and Councillors to protect the Green Belt around our towns and villages. It is vital that Cheshire East Council now receives the best available advice to complete the Local Plan as soon as possible. Locally, it is critical to establish Neighbourhood Plans in our communities to provide greater protection. I will do all that I can to make this possible as part of my campaign to protect the Green Belt."