Aphra Brandreth, Member of Parliament for Chester South & Eddisbury, has written to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to formally raise concerns about a proposed housing development on greenbelt land outside Christleton.
The plans, brought forward by Bloor Homes, would see up to 200 homes built adjacent to the Mercure Abbotts Well Hotel on the A41 Whitchurch Road. Aphra has urged the Government to take into account serious issues raised by local residents, parish councils and community groups.
Aphra Brandreth MP said:
“I absolutely support the need for new homes, particularly for young people and families. But it is vital that developments are sustainable, in the right locations, and backed by the community. This proposal does not meet those tests.”
In her letter to the Secretary of State, Aphra Brandreth MP raised key concerns, including:
Overdevelopment of the Whitchurch Road Corridor – More than 200 homes have already been delivered along this stretch of road, which now accounts for over 10% of Cheshire West and Chester’s annual housing target.
Traffic and Safety Issues – The A41 is already one of Chester’s busiest commuter routes, with a history of serious road incidents. There are safety concerns for pupils walking and cycling in the area, and air quality levels already exceed safe limits.
Pressure on Infrastructure – The A41 is a main emergency route to the Countess of Chester Hospital, and local GP practices, dentists, and schools are already operating at or beyond capacity. There is concern that the community does not have the infrastructure to absorb a development of this scale.
Loss of Greenbelt Land – The site lies within the greenbelt, forming a key green buffer between Chester’s suburbs and Christleton. The proposed development would see the removal of mature trees and hedgerows, including some protected by Tree Preservation Orders.
Widespread Community Opposition – Over 90% of residents responding to the developers' own consultation opposed the scheme, with seven local parish councils uniting against the proposals.
Aphra has called on the Secretary of State to give “serious weight” to these environmental, highways, and community factors should the application come before national consideration at appeal or call-in stage. She 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 should the developer take their plans forward.
Read Aphra's letter here.
