DEVELOPERS have moved a step closer to building 166 homes on the former Marley Tile Works site after borough chiefs granted fresh planning approval.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has approved a reserved matters application for the properties to be built at the disused factory in Station Road, Delamere.

CWAC had already granted outline permission for up to 180 homes to be built on the site in 2015, but the council has now given Lane End Developments and Laurus Homes the green light on its design for a total of 166 homes, plus the details on open space, access and landscaping.

In its design statement, architect PRP said the homes would be of a quality that ‘exceeds the normal requirements of a residential development’.

“The reserved matters application seeks to increase the housing supply, meeting a known need in the area, not least in the provision of affordable housing,” it said.

“It brings an under-used brownfield site back into positive use, while at the same time protecting all of the various qualities of the mid Cheshire greenbelt.

“The design will deliver a development which is desirable and enjoyable to live in, and help to strengthen the existing community of Delamere.”

The fresh planning permission gives the developers the green light for 45 two-bed, 54 three-bed, 55 four-bed and 12 five-bed homes, with many properties set to feature garages.

A total of 51 of the properties will be affordable units, including 25 listed for ‘affordable rent’, and a further 26 for intermediate rent or shared ownership.

Residents from two neighbouring properties raised fears over the proposal with CWAC, including potential issues with noise.

Delamere and Oakmere Parish Council also raised concerns about a lack of housing for elderly residents in the development, while it also requested improved footpaths and transport links between the development and the wider area.

According to the conditions set by CWAC following its decision, Lane End and Laurus must provide adequate footpaths for each home before the first is occupied.