Aphra Brandreth, Member of Parliament for Chester South and Eddisbury, has written to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP, to raise serious concerns about the proposed developments south of Chester Road in Sandiway (planning application 25/02017/FUL and 25/02111/FUL).
While recognising the need for new homes, particularly for young people, families, and first-time buyers, Aphra has stressed that development must be in the right places, supported by proper infrastructure, and consistent with local and national planning policy.
In her letter, Aphra highlighted several key issues:
Conflict with the Neighbourhood Plan – The proposals do not align with the Cuddington and Sandiway Neighbourhood Plans, which sets clear guidance for scale, character, and sustainable development.
Loss of high-quality agricultural land – The sites would lead to the irreversible loss of Grade 2 farmland, with insufficient justification given.
Transport and safety concerns – There is insufficient public transport links, and highways that are not repaired effectively or efficiently, nor is there safe pedestrian access.
Environmental impact – The loss of priority hedgerows and failure to deliver the required 10% biodiversity net gain are major shortcomings.
Strain on healthcare and services – Local GP practices are already overstretched, with no confirmed contributions to support healthcare capacity.
Design and housing mix – The affordable housing provision is unbalanced, with units clustered in less desirable parts of the two sites. The proposal as a whole also undermines the semi-rural identity of the parish.
Drainage and utilities – Local residents already report low water pressure, and no Water Utility Impact Assessment has been submitted to demonstrate that the system can accommodate further demand.
Development boundary breach – The proposals sit outside the designated settlement boundary, setting a worrying precedent for expansion into open countryside.
Aphra Brandreth MP explained,
“I want to see more homes built for local people, but they must be in suitable locations, supported by proper infrastructure, and designed in keeping with the local area. The two applications fall short of those requirements and risks harming the character, sustainability, and services of our community. I have therefore asked the Secretary of State to consider these concerns carefully.”
Aphra thanks the hundreds of residents who have contacted her. She will continue to work closely with local residents and councillors to ensure community voices are heard. Aphra also encourages residents to keep sharing their views directly with their local ward councillors and the council itself, as these are the bodies responsible for deciding on the application.
Read Aphra's letters to the Sectretary of State for Housing.
