THE news that the Planning Inspector has recently adjourned the independent enquiry into the Congleton Local Plan is of concern.

This is apparently due to the high level of statements and the need to process them.

It reinforces my view that Cheshire East Council has not foreseen the challenges of introducing a Local Plan in this area and not allocated the requisite resources from the beginning of the process.

The very fact that developers are offering help to modify the submission to make it more likely to be accepted shows the confusion that reigns over the timescale for its adoption.

If Cheshire East would seek and accept independent help in formulating future submissions, they are more likely to achieve a realistic compromise between what is desirable and what the Inspectorate is likely to accept.

Dr Peter Hirst Lib Dem PC for Congleton, Middlewich