VILLAGERS are being asked to have their say on the future of Alderley Edge – which could include more affordable homes.

The first draft of the Alderley Edge neighbourhood development plan has been unveiled, with residents able to comment on it until Thursday, September 12.

Its aim is to give residents’ wishes a stronger voice when planning applications are being considered by Cheshire East Council or inspectors.

“We are really keen for as many residents and business owners as possible to give us their feedback and let us know what they think,” said Cllr Craig Browne, CEC member for Alderley Edge.

“We want the neighbourhood plan to be quite prescriptive about the kinds of development we want to see in Alderley Edge.

“We also want to support Alderley Edge’s economy and make sure the business mix is right for the village.”

Neighbourhood plans have legal authority and are given weight during the planning process – but they must conform to the CEC local plan.

Three sites in Alderley Edge have been earmarked for housing in the latest draft for the second part of CEC’s local plan – known as the Site Allocations and Strategic Policies Document (SADPD).

That includes around 45 homes at Ryleys Farm, around 35 new homes north of Beech Road, and around 10 homes next to Jenny Heyes.

Cllr Browne said: “We have got the three small sites allocated through the SADPD, but what that does not set out is the kind of housing that we want to see here in Alderley Edge.

“That is what is really key about the neighbourhood development plan.

“We want to focus on small to medium size developments, rather than big luxury homes, because we have got enough of those already.”

The draft plan sets out 21 policies covering a range of key issues – such as housing type and design, supporting local businesses, protecting Alderley Edge’s character, car parking and public spaces.

For new housing in the village, it supports building on previously developed brownfield sites, calls for more affordable homes for older or younger residents, and pushes for environmentally friendly properties.

There are also policies considered for encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting and enhancing the village centre, and protecting green spaces and historic buildings.

Car parking also takes centre stage in the plan – with a call for more spaces at the Festival Hall and Ryleys Lane – while better infrastructure for walking and cycling is also encouraged.

The first draft of the neighbourhood plan is the result of three years’ hard work for the neighbourhood plan steering group – including earlier public engagement sessions.

Residents can now read the full draft and complete a questionnaire on the proposals by visiting alderleynp.com

READ > Warning over deadly disease from hot tubs and hose pipes this summer

Two drop-in consultation sessions will also take place at Alderley Edge Library from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday, August 13, and Tuesday, September 10.

Alternatively, hard copies can be found at Alderley Edge Library, at the Festival Hall or by writing to Anne Ross, parish clerk, at Festival Hall, Talbot Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7HR.