Families fight plans for new housing estate in Sandbach
THOUSANDS of residents look set to lose their fight to stop developers building houses in the open countryside.
More than 3,500 people have objected to proposals by developers Stewart Milne Homes and Muller Property Group to construct 39 homes on land off Hassall Road, in Sandbach.
But despite their campaign – which has seen a number of petitions circulated around the area – planners at Cheshire East Council have recommended the plans should be approved.
Families claim Hassall Road cannot sustain any further traffic and the area's roads and services would be put under undue strain if the development was sanctioned.
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Residents also fear the design of the proposed homes is not in keeping with the area and believe the green space the estate is earmarked for should be protected against housing developments.
Michael Oakes, of Cross Lane, said: "The access to the site is off a very busy and heavily used road.
"How are 70-plus cars going to safely enter and exit through an entrance that is no wider than a single farm gate?"
Robert Evans, of Hassall Road, said: "The countryside down here is beautiful.
"Why spoil it with more houses that can be built elsewhere?"
Last month campaigners from the Hands Off Our Sandbach (HOOS) group marched on Cheshire East's council headquarters to oppose development projects which could see up to 5,000 new homes built in the area.
Carmen Tomlinson, of Condliffe Close, said: "I live in Sandbach as I love the countryside and I do not agree with houses being built on land where people enjoy going for walks."
The development – which includes a foul water pumping station – would provide a mixture of two, three and four bedroom homes opposite Mortimer Drive.
A council report states: The proposal will not have a significant impact on the landscape character of the area."
The council will insist on £214,860 in Section 106 payments including a contribution for a play area in Mortimer Driver, improvements to Hassall Road, and cash for future primary and secondary education provision.
Members of the authority's strategic planning board will consider the plans tomorrow.
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