In the last two years there has been a lot of misinformation circulated on one of the Facebook groups about the planning permission granted for the road linking the A34 Eden Point roundabout to Wilmslow Road in Heald Green. It has been suggested this will lead to the opening up of the area for development.
We want to set the record straight on this. The detailed background to this decision is here:
- Agenda & minutes from the Planning & Highways Regulation Committee meeting on 3rd April 2023
- The planning report (58 pages)
In summary:
The decision to build more houses in Heald Green is not dependent on this road.
Housing approvals are determined by:
- National Policy: The National Planning Policy Framework sets the rules for development.
- Local Planning: Stockport’s lack of an updated Local Plan meant it was harder to restrict new housing.
- Government Approval: Former Secretary of State Robert Jenrick personally approved the Bloor Homes development.
Reasons the proposal was approved
A majority vote of six to one
The proposals were approved by a majority of six councillors to one, at Planning and Highways Committee on 3 April 2023. This wasn’t just the decision of the Heald Green councillor present Cllr Stuart, despite it being misrepresented online as such. The proposal was also previously recommended for approval by Cheadle Area Committee.
The role of factual evidence
In making planning decisions at Planning and Highways Committee – the councillors at the meeting need to take into account the factual evidence contained in the report and information. There have been lots of critical comments on Facebook criticising the decision after it was made. However there needed to be factual evidence to support those comments, and none had been submitted during the consultation for the application. A majority of people consulted were supportive of the plans.
Infrastructure and congestion management
The plans were supported by the Highways engineer. This junction will alleviate congestion from vehicles joining the A34 at Stanley Green and Cheadle Royal, which are massive pinch points even without this additional building. This decision was the one that best served the whole of the ward.