TWO Winsford developments totalling 287 houses could be given the green light this week – including one at a former school closed as it was undersubscribed.

Cheshire West and Chester Council officers are recommending approval for both projects ahead of a crucial planning meeting on Thursday.

MCI Developments is behind the biggest scheme, involving 205 affordable homes to be built on land behind West Drive, including 127 houses and 78 apartments.

The brownfield site is allocated for housing in the Winsford neighbourhood plan and was previously occupied by Car Transplants and Vehicle Repossessions UK, now based in Winsford Industrial Estate.

In a report published ahead of the meeting, CWAC officers said: “The application for 205 dwellings is within an area of the borough that is suitable for new housing in line with [CWAC’s local plan].

“The proposal represents a sustainable form of development that assists in meeting housing needs in the local area whilst promoting regeneration by supporting the use of previously developed land.

“In addition, the proposal would bring the vacant site into beneficial use. The development would enhance the appearance and character of the surrounding area.”

READ > Housing blueprint set for review with focus on new infrastructure and flood risk

Six letters of objection were sent to CWAC against the scheme, raising concerns about the loss of trees and landscaping, and the impact of new homes on local infrastructure.

Winsford Town Council called on CWAC to take into account concerns raised by Cheshire Police about anti-social behaviour in the area – where there is an average of 58 reported incidents a month.

Colin Marples, Cheshire Police’s ‘designing out crime’ officer for Cheshire West, said: “It is clear that the majority of dwellings benefit from good levels of natural surveillance.

“This will help in deterring crime and anti-social behaviour as the chances of being seen are high.

“The site at present is an eyesore which in itself is a promoter of criminal activity.”

Mr Marples made a series of recommendations to help make the development more secure – including storage to prevent bins being set on fire.

If approved, MCI Developments will be required to contribute £412,646 towards open space provision, plus £166,320 for the NHS and £20,000 for highways improvements.

Meanwhile, a further 82 homes could be built on the former Handley Hill Primary School site, including 25 affordable homes.

Galliford Try is working with CWAC to develop the site, which is also allocated for housing in the Winsford neighbourhood plan.

In a report published ahead of the meeting, CWAC officers said: “The proposed development will bring an underutilised and vacant site back into beneficial use.

“The site is located in a sustainable and accessible location with good public transport connections within Winsford.

READ > New Images Youth Centre celebrates after receiving £258,000 National Lottery grant

“The site is also well located for existing local services including shops and health and leisure facilities.”

Handley Hill closed its doors in 2009 after campaigners lost their battle to keep it open against the former Cheshire County Council, and the building was demolished in 2018.

The school’s memorial garden – which commemorates brothers Joshua, Thomas, Callum and Daniel Young who were killed in 2003 – will be retained as part of the development.

Sport England objects to the plans due to the loss of the Handley Hill playing pitch, although CWAC does not need to take this into account as the pitch has not been used for more than five years.

NHS commissioners have requested £76,176 from the developer to help improve health services in Winsford.

Three letters of objection were sent to CWAC, with residents concerned about an increase in traffic.