New Homes in Sandbach Approved
Plans to build 160 new homes in Sandbach have been approved after a successful appeal against Cheshire East Council’s initial rejection. This development marks a significant step forward in addressing the local housing demand.
Cheshire East Council’s Initial Rejection
In 2022, Cheshire East Council rejected the proposed development on Old Mill Road, citing concerns that the project did not create a “high quality, beautiful, and sustainable place.” This decision has now been overturned following a detailed review.
Planning Inspector and Government Minister’s Approval
A planning inspector reviewed the scheme and recommended its approval. Local Government Minister Simon Hoare, representing the Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities Secretary Michael Gove, has now granted permission for the development. The minister noted that the layout of the scheme was satisfactory and would create an attractive environment.
Details of the Development
The approved proposal by Muller Property Group includes:
- 160 new homes
- Detailed plans for appearance, landscaping, and layout
- Car parking and public spaces
- A 7.21-hectare (17.8-acre) site east of the A534 in Sandbach
Historical Context and Previous Proposals
This site has seen several development proposals over the years:
- In 2014, a plan for 200 homes was approved on appeal.
- In 2017, outline planning permission for 200 homes was granted.
- The reserved matters application related to the 2017 approval was refused by the council in 2022.
- In 2020, plans for a care home and 85 homes on the rear part of the site were approved on appeal, while a scheme for a supermarket, petrol station, and 85 homes was rejected.
Council’s Response and Next Steps
Cheshire East Council has expressed disappointment with the decision and intends to study the reasons behind it. They have six weeks to challenge the approval. The council had previously argued that the scheme was inadequately planned and would negatively impact the area’s character and appearance. The applicant countered that the council’s reliance on an illustrative layout was unrealistic, as it was only a conceptual representation.
Conclusion
The approval of this development is a significant milestone for Sandbach, promising to bring much-needed housing to the area.
Muller Property Group founder Colin Muller, says the appeal had cost the company more than £200,000, stating that: “The inspector’s report was a robust one which addressed every issue the council threw at us. It’s the right decision for the council, which will deliver 30 per cent affordable housing and £2 million of highway improvements. The council wanted a slavish adherence to its housing mix policy, when we have provided three and four-bedroom homes. But since Covid-19, these will be used the same way as two-bedroom ones, with a study to work from home. To me, they are the same thing.”
Read the latest national press coverage for the decision from the BBC, Property Week and Planning Resource and for more updates on the latest developments and future plans for Sandbach, subscribe to our newsletter and follow our news blog.
