approval-granted-for-136-home-estate-development-on-farmland

Approval Granted for 136-Home Estate Development on Farmland

Halton Council is on the brink of green-lighting a new housing estate that could transform a patch of farmland into a bustling community. The development management committee is poised to approve an application by Morris Homes for a 136-home project in Preston-on-the-Hill, just north of Chester Road between Preston Brook Bridge and Windmill Lane.

The Details Unveiled

If given the green light, this project will introduce a variety of homes, including two-bed apartments and four-bed detached houses, on a 17-acre triangular piece of greenfield land. Notably, a quarter of the houses will be classified as ‘affordable’, encompassing social housing, affordable rentals, and ‘first homes’ under a government initiative that offers discounted properties.

Community Impact and Controversy

While this development promises new housing opportunities, it has sparked mixed reactions within the community. A public consultation resulted in 43 representations, with 29 objections from nearby residents criticizing the estate’s ‘high density’ layout. However, a report defending the project highlighted its adherence to planning policies and efficient land use, ultimately recommending approval for the well-designed scheme.

Sustainability and Design Excellence

In a bid to mitigate noise from the nearby M56 motorway, the development includes a ‘significant’ acoustic bund along the site’s boundary. Additionally, the applicant’s thoughtful selection of house types and site layout has garnered praise for its architectural quality and cohesive design. This upcoming decision holds significant implications for the local landscape and housing market.

As the committee gears up for a crucial meeting on January 28 at Runcorn Town Hall, the fate of this ambitious housing project hangs in the balance. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story that could reshape the future of Preston-on-the-Hill and its surrounding areas.

Would you welcome a new housing estate in your neighborhood, or do you have concerns about potential changes to your community’s landscape? Share your thoughts and join the conversation on the future of housing developments in your area.