Protesters gather to oppose homes plan
AROUND 150 people were at Danes Moss this weekend to show their opposition for plans for development there.
The Danes Moss Day took place on Saturday, October 1, and included a talk from Doctor Roger Meade, who was instrumental in the area being given Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) status.
Sales of cakes, T-shirts and biodegradable glitter tattoos raised £420 for the Save Danes Moss legal fund, which now stands at nearly £15,000.
This money will be used to finance a judicial review should Cheshire East Council approve its own proposals to build the South Macclesfield Development Area (SMDA) there.
It consists of 10 planning applications, although none have gone before the strategic planning board yet.
Campaigner Tom Eccles said: “Our fundraiser has given us enough to begin a judicial review should any of these applications be approved.
“We are also ready to oppose any planning appeal by the developers if their planning applications are rejected by the strategic planning board.”
Also speaking at the event was Simon Caporn, professor of ecology and environment at Manchester Metropolitan University, and local councillors and MP David Rutley were in attendance.
Other supporters of the campaign include a range of academics and environmentalists such as Chris Packham and Cheshire Wildlife Trust.
Arguments against development include a negative effect on biodiversity
and disruption of peat – a vital weapon in the fight against climate change.
Campaigners also want the carbon status report that looks at this latter issue at Danes Moss to be
made public by the council.
It was commissioned last year and has been with the council since early 2022.
for its part the council says the SMDA will bring
much-needed economic benefits to the town and all environmental matters will be considered.
It also says council plans for the area – from its company Engine of the North allow it to retain some control over the site rather than let it fall completely into private sector hands.
Proposals include around 950 houses, business premises, retail, a new school and a link road.