Campaigners left "confused" over planning agenda (From Northwich Guardian)

Campaigners left "confused" over planning agenda

2:00pm Wednesday 10th October 2012 in News By Emma Rigby

RESIDENTS campaigning against the construction of a crematorium and memorial garden on the border of Lostock Green and Lach Dennis have been left “confused” by the uncertainty over when plans will be discussed by Cheshire West and Chester’s (CWAC) strategic planning committee.

The facility, planned for a site south of the junction of Hangman’s Lane and Birches Lane and proposed by Memoria Ltd, has sparked controversy in both rural communities, with campaigners concerned it will increase traffic flow and affect the vitality of the villages.

The plans were originally scheduled to be heard at September’s meeting of CWAC’s strategic planning committee, but did not feature on the agenda.

Ros Todhunter, Lostock Green resident and member of the Lach Dennis and Lostock Green Action Group (LDLG) met with case planning officer Judith Gordon last month.

“We were told that if the crematorium wasn’t on the agenda for September, it would be on it for October 11,” said Ros.

“If not, then it would more than likely be discussed at the next scheduled meeting on November 22.”

However, the Action Group have since been told that an additional strategic planning meeting has been scheduled for October 25, when the Memoria plans will likely be discussed.

“We were expecting it to be discussed in November,” said Ros.

“It’s unacceptable to arrange a meeting at such short notice, especially as we were working towards November 22.

“It will be difficult for our two representatives and probably the representatives from both Lostock Gralam and Lach Dennis Parish Councils to attend at short notice.

“THE LDLG Action group intended to circulate a leaflet as soon as possible to residents of both villages, informing them when the application will be determined by the planning committee.

“We’ve also made arrangements to book a coach to take residents to the meeting to show the strength of opposite.

"But of course the date keeps changing, initially September 20, then October 11, then November 22 and now October 25 - even the venue has changed now to Wyvern House in Winsford.

“It’s all caused a lot of confusion with local residents about what is going on.”

What do you think about the proposed crematorium?