A DEVELOPER looking to build new homes in Middlewich has told the council that planning approval should be granted due to a lack of new housing in the town.

The developer seeks permission from Cheshire East Council to construct three detached houses in Watersmeet, off Nantwich Road, close to the Shropshire Union Canal.

As part of the plans, developers will create a new access for cars — but ensure the ‘existing pedestrian stile-access will be maintained to provide good walkable access to Middlewich.’

Northwich Guardian:

A supporting statement on the application to the council from developers makes the case that there has been a 'shortfall in the supply of homes in Middlewich ove the past 10 years'.

It states: “The proposed site is currently used for private recreational purposes by the current owner, who maintains the vegetation and has installed a stile to allow private access to and from the pavement and the town.

“A lack of delivery in Middlewich is underlined in CEC’s latest Housing Completions and Supply Summary which identifies that there has been 672 house completions in the 10 year period up to March 31 2020.

“[It] identifies a minimum housing supply requirement of 2001 new homes.

“There is, therefore, as of March 2020, a shortfall in supply of homes in Middlewich over the past 10 years of 329 homes.”

Residents have until November 26 to comment on the application, which can be done online via CEC’s planning portal.