PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have cleared the way for a controversial application to build 450 homes – some three storeys high – on farm land close to Culcheth High School.
They have decided the scheme, likely to be put forward by developers Peel Land, does not require a formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Peel are now expected to submit an application for outline planning permission for the homes and community facilities, including a retail store, health centre, sports facilities and a “drop off” point for the high school.
There is considerable local opposition to the proposals to the scheme on land north of Warrington Road and adjoining the leafy residential area of Culcheth Hall Drive.
The fact that an EIA is not needed does not mean that planning consent for the housing will automatically be granted.
Planning consent will still be needed before the scheme can progress. But it is seen as removing one hurdle for the developers.
Worried residents and local councillors say the development will put an unbearable strain on local infrastructure.
They point out that the existing Storey Homes development, opposite the school, isn’t even completed yet and that there are other housing proposals in the pipeline, including Redrow’s plans for 450 homes off Hob Hey Lane.
There is likely to be major opposition to the planning application when it is submitted.
