Opposition grows against plan to fill in pond
A HUGE wave of opposition to a house builder’s plans to fill in a pond has seen around 200 objections and
£1,000 raised for professional help.
Seddon Construction already has permission for 77 new homes in Langley but now also wants to get rid of a nearby lake to also create a play area.
However, the lake is a local beauty and nature spot and has been part of village life for around a century so residents are putting up a fight.
Seddon needs planning permission and has lodged an application that has met with more than 200 objections.
And a JustGiving webpage that set up by protesters to raise £500 to pay for help from a planning consultant smashed this target and collected more than £1,000.
Steve Leighton, from the Save Langley Pond team, said: “We have received amazing backing from the villagers of Langley and the people of Macclesfield.
”Objections are coming thick and fast not only from residents but from major organisations and agencies such as United Utilities, Cheshire Wildlife Trust and Sutton Parish Council.
”The support is mounting fast to stop Seddon Homes from filling in this historical amenity for the village of Langley.”
Some residents fear filling in the pond could cause flooding and it is said wildlife including migrating birds will be disturbed.
The football pitchsized body of water has also been used by fishermen since the
1920s and Harding’s Angling Society has spent several thousand pounds on improvements there.
United Utilities has said it will object until there is evidence filling in the lake will have no impact on the sewage network.
The period for representations to be made is now over and according to Cheshire East Council’s website a decision from planners is imminent.
Seddon Homes has been approached for comment.
Previously managing director Mick Jefferson has said: “As responsible house builders Seddon
Homes takes the needs of existing residents into account when planning our new developments.
”The millpond to the rear of the land is a relic from past use and somewhat hazardous, while we accept it is aesthetically pleasing to those using the public footpath it is currently a private and restricted area. Our proposal would benefit the whole community by creating a natural play area with unrestricted access for all
Langley residents, which will be maintained by a Management company funded by the new residents of the development.”