Work to formally begin on Cheshire East’s new Local Plan

Work is set to formally begin on developing a new Local Plan for Cheshire East – the blueprint for how the borough will grow and thrive well into the 2040s.

The Local Plan will shape where new homes, jobs and infrastructure go, protect Cheshire East’s green spaces and heritage, help us respond to big challenges like climate change and create healthier environments.

It will influence everything from transport links and town centre regeneration to affordable housing and opportunities for local businesses. All of these play a part in people’s quality of life, health and wellbeing. 

Today, Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet agreed that a ‘notice of intention to commence’ can be published, which allows work on the Local Plan to officially begin.

The next step will be to carry out a ‘scoping consultation’, starting in July. This will take views on a vision for the future of Cheshire East, the council’s proposed approach to policy development, the emerging evidence base for the plan and how the council will engage with residents and stakeholders.

Councillor Michael Gorman, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said:

“Cheshire East is already a great place to live, work and visit and we now need a bold and ambitious strategy and vision for the future to ensure it continues to grow and thrive.

“Without a strong, up-to-date plan, homes and development can happen in the wrong places and without the schools, roads, health services and other facilities that our communities need and rely on.   

“We’re looking ahead to what Cheshire East might be like in 2045 and the Local Plan gives us the power to shape how we grow and develop – supporting thriving communities, a resilient economy, and a better environment for future generations.”

The Local Plan is expected to be completed and adopted by early 2029. The scoping consultation will be the first in a series of statutory consultations that will take place during the Plan’s development.

Cllr Gorman added:

“While the council awaited information from the Government about changes to the way local plans must now be prepared, as part of its reforms to the planning system, our strategic planning team has carried out significant preparatory work so that we could hit the ground running.

“Today’s cabinet decision is a milestone moment in developing this hugely important policy – a policy that affects every resident and business in Cheshire East.

“As the plan develops, we will place great emphasis on a thorough programme of consultation, including community assemblies, to ensure all voices and views are heard. There will be ample opportunity for local communities to have their say, and I encourage everyone to take part.

“What we decide through the Local Plan will affect how Cheshire East looks for many years to come – so your views really do matter.”