VILLAGERS are opposing plans for a stable block and storage barn on Mobberley land at the centre of a major controversy over proposed caravan pitches.

Applicant Michael Maloney is seeking approval to change the use of the site off Broad Oak Lane to station caravans for residential purposes for three Gipsy pitches.

Almost 900 residents have written to Cheshire East Council opposing the application because of its impact on the Green Belt, expressing concern work had taken place on the land without planning permission, and fears over increased traffic.

In response to unauthorised works on the site Cheshire East Council obtained a court injunction three days after registering the application to prevent further development, and The High Court is due to rule on the injunction next month.

Mr Maloney has also submitted an application for a stable block and replacement agricultural storage barn with associated landscaping on the same site. The deadline for comments on the plans, 20/3409M, is October 14.

A report with the application said the proposed development was for a stable block and secure storage barn for water, fodder and associated equestrian equipment.

The plans have sparked objections, with a Townfield Road resident writing: “Again this is an absolutely unbelievable request for planning permission to expand the land and its use.

“The land [has] been completely transformed, asphalt laid, septic tanks installed, flood lights erected.

“So now for the utter cheek of the current residents to request planning permission for stables and a sufficient site for horses to be kept on this land is beyond words.

“This, under no circumstances, in mine and a lot of residents’ opinions, should not even be looked at, contemplated or entertained, especially until the initial planning is concluded.

“I sincerely hope all concerns and objections are strongly considered and looked into thoroughly by any court of law, and this unbelievable, inconsiderate behaviour and transformation of this green belt land is put to an end and is stopped.”

A resident from Town Lane said the site was green belt land, and the work which had already been carried out had ruined what was a beautiful field.

They said: “Although there has been substantial work to the entrance to this premises, it is still not safe and has insufficient visibility with the adjacent bridge and bends.

“Previous applications for similar permission have been refused at adjacent properties; I would ask that the precedent set for these be applied.”

A fellow Town Lane resident said there was no grazing land left for horses on the site as it was all now hardstanding.”