‘Chance to make our town better’ (From Knutsford Guardian)

‘Chance to make our town better’

2:40pm Wednesday 19th December 2012 in News By James Wilson

TWO areas of Knutsford originally earmarked for development as part of the town strategy have been scrapped from the plans.

This week Clr Michael Jones, leader of Cheshire East Council, told the Guardian there would be 350 and 400 new homes on two sites in the north west of the town – owned by both Tatton Estates and the Crown Estate.

Townsfolk had originally feared more than 1,200 homes would be built after the four preferred sites were revealed in August.

But the council has now dropped two of the sites – Parkgate Industrial estate and the site opposite Longridge.

The sites that remain are off Mereheath Lane and the site off Tabley Road.

“We have been meeting all the pressure groups in Knutsford and have got it down to 400 new homes in Knutsford but it could be less than that,” Clr Jones said.

“We’ve taken away the vast majority of the sites in the town, in particular the site near Longridge which is a protected site. The Parkgate extensions, put forward by Tatton Estates, will be safeguarded until the access under the railway is sorted.

“The north west of Knutsford is the area we are looking at which will be a mix of employment and housing.

“Half of that site we are looking at is Tatton Estate owned and the other is Crown land.

“But we still think that will be too big so it will be down to the consultation, which will begin in January.

“We are being very dynamic and we are looking forward to meeting more people, in particular the sports groups.”

A spokesman for the Tatton Estate said: “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make Knutsford better. “We are pleased the council has clearly identified the unique character of Knutsford and welcome their efforts to protect and enhance it.

From page one “We hope though that they will listen to the consultation responses, namely the need for a medical centre soon, as well as better facilities for our young and our elderly population.

“Importantly, we need to create the opportunity for those most in need to live and work in their home town.

“We don’t want to miss this opportunity. Meanwhile, the most supported site for residential growth at Parkgate, has not been allocated, and no sports, medical or educational facilities have been provided for on this side of town.”

What do you think about the council’s latest decision regarding the future of Knutsford? Email yourviews@guardiangrp.co.uk or write to the Guardian at 3 Theatre Court, London Road, Northwich, CW9 5HB.