A hybrid planning application has been submitted to Cheshire East Council for Phase 3 of the Crewe Northern Gateway, bringing forward proposals for up to 520 new homes, a local centre and extensive green infrastructure on land off Hurcomb Way.
The application, submitted by Muller Property Group, represents the next phase of the wider Northern Gateway development, building on the successful delivery of earlier phases to the west. The site extends to around 26 hectares of land on the north-eastern edge of Crewe and will form a natural continuation of the emerging neighbourhoods off Sydney Road.
The hybrid submission seeks full planning permission for the primary access and spine road through the site, alongside outline permission for the residential development, local centre and community facilities. This approach allows essential infrastructure to be delivered early, while enabling flexibility in the detailed design of the neighbourhood as it evolves.
New homes and community facilities
The proposals will deliver up to 520 new homes, including a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties designed to meet a wide range of local needs. As part of its commitment to the local community, the application reserves 30% of the homes—equating to approximately 156 properties—as affordable housing.
Alongside new homes, the development will include a local centre with around 400 sq m of flexible commercial space, providing opportunities for shops and services to serve the growing community.
A range of community and recreational facilities are also proposed, including a junior football pitch, multi-use games area, children’s play spaces and allotments. These will be complemented by over 10 acres of public open space, creating opportunities for outdoor activity and social interaction.
Colin Muller, founder and chief executive of Muller Property Group, said: “There is a clear and ongoing need for new homes in Crewe, and bringing forward a scheme of this scale has required careful planning, significant investment and close collaboration with the Council and stakeholders.
“Throughout the process, we have worked proactively to show how this development can make a meaningful contribution to meeting local housing need, including the delivery of affordable homes, alongside new infrastructure and community facilities.
“This is about more than housing. The proposals will support the wider community through new open space, sports provision, local services and investment towards education, healthcare and transport improvements.
“We are proud to have reached this stage and look forward to continuing to work positively with all parties to deliver a high-quality, sustainable neighbourhood that supports Crewe’s long-term growth.”
Landscape, environment and access
The design of the scheme has been shaped by the site’s natural features, including Fowle Brook, which runs through the centre of the site within a defined valley. Development has been carefully arranged to avoid flood-prone areas and incorporate sustainable drainage features such as ponds and swales.
Existing landscape features—including hedgerows, mature trees and the woodland area known as Fox Covert—will be retained and enhanced, helping to protect biodiversity and create a strong green framework across the development.
A new spine road will connect the site from Hurcomb Way through to Maw Green Road, improving local connectivity while also providing infrastructure capable of supporting future public transport routes. Walking and cycling routes will be integrated throughout the site, linking to existing networks and encouraging sustainable travel.
Public engagement
Muller Property Group has undertaken extensive engagement with the local community in advance of submitting the application, working closely with Cheshire East Council, its Design Review Panel and members of the planning committee, alongside discussions with key consultees.
The project team has also engaged with local stakeholders and community representatives, offering opportunities to meet and discuss the proposals, as well as carrying out a programme of public consultation to gather feedback.
As a result of this engagement, the proposals have evolved to place greater emphasis on community infrastructure, including the provision of a local centre, accessible green space and recreational facilities. A dedicated project website has also been made available ahead of submission, providing information and an opportunity for residents to view and comment on the plans.
Supporting Crewe’s future
The proposals come forward at a time when Cheshire East faces a recognised shortfall in housing supply, with the borough currently unable to demonstrate a five-year supply of deliverable housing land.
Phase 3 of the Northern Gateway will make a significant contribution towards meeting this need, delivering a mix of homes alongside supporting infrastructure and community facilities.
The development is also expected to generate economic benefits, including job creation during construction and new employment opportunities within the local centre, as well as increased spending in the local economy from new residents.
Muller Property Group welcomes the opportunity to continue working with Cheshire East Council, statutory consultees and the local community as the application progresses through the planning process.
