Plans to demolish a building at Agden Brook Farm in Lymm and repurpose others for employment opportunities are facing opposition due to concerns over the impact on the green belt. The proposed development, which includes research and development activities, industrial processes, and the creation of jobs, has drawn criticism from Cheshire East council for being an inappropriate form of development in the protected green belt area.
Opposition from Council
Cheshire East council’s planning officers have raised objections to the proposed demolition and redevelopment of Agden Brook Farm, located off Lymm Road. They argue that the plans would not only alter the existing farmyard appearance but also detract from the rural character and setting of the site, transforming it into a car and heavy goods vehicle-dominated area. The council’s concerns are centered around the potential impact on the openness of the green belt and the overall sustainability of the proposed development.
In a report prepared by the case officer, it was noted that there are “very limited details of how the proposed uses would operate,” raising doubts about the compatibility of the project with the preservation of the green belt. While the application has not received any formal objections from the public, the council remains cautious about the long-term implications of the proposed development on the surrounding environment.
Benefits vs. Drawbacks
Despite the objections raised by the council, the proposed development does come with potential benefits, including the reuse of agricultural buildings and the creation of new job opportunities in the local area. The application states that the project could generate up to 15 jobs, requiring 96 parking spaces. However, the council has expressed concerns about the likelihood of employees commuting from larger settlements further away, leading to an unsustainable pattern of development that draws people away from more accessible locations.
While the creation of new jobs is a positive aspect of the proposed development, the council remains wary of the overall impact on the rural character of the area and the potential strain on local infrastructure. The balance between economic benefits and environmental considerations is a key issue that the council will have to weigh when deciding on the fate of Agden Brook Farm.
Decision Pending
The fate of the proposed development at Agden Brook Farm is set to be decided by the northern planning committee on Wednesday, August 21. The meeting, scheduled to take place at 10 am at Macclesfield Town Hall, will be a crucial moment in determining the future of the site and the surrounding green belt area. The decision made by the planning committee will have far-reaching implications for the local community and the balance between economic development and environmental preservation.
As the debate over the proposed demolition and redevelopment of Agden Brook Farm continues, stakeholders on all sides are closely watching the unfolding developments. The decision made by the council will not only impact the immediate area but also set a precedent for future development projects in the green belt. Balancing the need for economic growth with the protection of green spaces is a delicate task that requires careful consideration and thoughtful planning.
In conclusion, the proposed demolition of a building at Agden Brook Farm in Lymm has sparked a heated debate over the future of the green belt and the sustainability of development in the area. While the creation of new job opportunities is a positive aspect of the proposed project, concerns over the impact on the rural character of the site and the surrounding environment have led to opposition from the council. The decision to be made by the planning committee on August 21 will be a crucial moment in determining the fate of Agden Brook Farm and the broader implications for green belt development in the region.
