Affordable homes plan dropped after villagers’ protest
ADEVELOPER has withdrawn plans to build affordable homes in Macclesfield’s rural green belt amid an outcry from villagers.
Punch Partnerships wanted to site 10 houses on land in Bosley that had previously been used as a car park for the now closed Queens Arms pub, on Leek Road.
The company said a survey mid-way through of last year showed the village would need 15 affordable housing within five years.
And the cheapest property available on the open market was £217,500.
But this was disputed and more than 15 residents objected to the proposals – for five sets of semis – as did Bosley Parish Council.
An objection from Carolyn Trafford, at the parish council, said: “The council re-iterates their strong rejection of any conclusion which states a need for 15 more affordable housing units within the parish.
“Any further local demand for affordable housing is adequately accounted for by the current provision.”
Other objections to the homes included that they were out of keeping with the area, the site was being overdeveloped, road safety and increased traffic.
There was also the concern that having the land as a potential car park for the Queens Arms makes it more likely someone will fell reopening it is viable.
Punch Partnerships has written to Cheshire East Council saying the application, which had been submitted in September 2020 was now withdrawn.
The pub itself has been sold by Punch Taverns and currently the council has a separate planning application seeking to turn it into a new family home.