RESIDENTS now face a waiting game to see whether they have been successful in defending their village from an influx of up to 100 new homes.

Plans put forward by Ashall Homes would have seen up to 100 dwellings built in Cuddington, on land bounded by Kennel Lane, Dalefords Lane and Chester Road but they were refused by Cheshire West and Chester Council in February after they were deemed to be a departure from the adopted local plan.

The council said the scheme would cause ‘unacceptable harm’ to highway safety and have a negative impact on the open character of the site and the village.

Ashall Homes appealed against CWAC’s decision, resulting in a four-day planning inquiry, which was held at Wyvern House, Winsford, last week.

Sandiway resident Chris Johnson, who is also director and crime supervisor of Northwich and Winsford-based mosshaselhurst Solicitors, represented the Action Group opposed to the scheme at the inquiry.

He said: “Our main concerns were that the site is an intrusion into open countryside on the southern side of the A556, changing the character of the southern side, and in particular ruining the tranquillity of Kennel Lane which we see as a valuable local asset.

“In addition we are of the opinion that it will create a precedent for more development on the southern side, and, together with the over 300 houses already granted permission in the village, overwhelm the local infrastructure.

“We are concerned at the increase in pedestrian traffic across the A556 and the siting of a Pelican crossing at a spot where we felt there had to be safety concerns.”

Action Group member Jan Mashlan, who also spoke at the inquiry, added: “We tried hard and we have done all we can – we just have to wait and see now what happens.

“It is in the hands of the inspector now.
“Thank you to everyone who came and spoke for us and supported us and thank you to the inspector for listening to us.”

Planning inspector Mr Collingford is due to carry out a site inspection on Friday before making a decision on whether or not to grant permission for the scheme.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the site inspection, which starts at 12pm at Cuddington station, but will not be able to ask questions.

What do you think about the scheme? Email emma.rigby@nqnw.co.uk or call 01606 813 621.