Developers have launched an appeal after their bid to build 200 homes in North Staffordshire was knocked back. It comes as community leaders threw out the proposals for the estate off Froghall Road in Cheadle.

Bloor Homes (North West) had seen the outline planning application recommended for approval by planners. A total of 185 objections were submitted against the project, which was first submitted in 2021, with fears raised over traffic and the pressure on public services.

Cheadle Town Council and Kingsley Parish Council had raised concerns over the proposals to build in the open countryside. The scheme was put before members of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council's  planning committee back in March and was earmarked for approval.

But councillors turned it down with a subsequent decision notice citing the land sitting 'outside the development boundary' of Cheadle, the land being greenfield, while also representing 'harmful encroachment' on a nearby listed building. Now Bloor Homes has lodged an appeal.

A total of 185 objections were submitted against the project, which was first submitted in 2021 (Bloor Homes).

The Planning Inspectorate has since contacted the district council to confirm a six-day inquiry will take place from January 28 next year.

An appeal letter from Emery Planning states: "The issues are complex and include technical matters relating to the impact of the proposals on designated heritage assets, landscape impacts and housing land supply. Addressing these matters will involve large amounts of technical evidence and cross examination.

"The issues cannot be properly tested and interrogated through written representations or a hearing. There is a difference of approach between the appellant, and the council in relation to the interpretation and application of policies contained in the Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework, particularly in relation to those spatial policies relating to the delivery of housing within the borough.

"There are clear differences between parties on a range of complex issues arising from policy fact and expert opinion, which will need to be tested by way of cross examination. There was a significant level of local interest in the application, with the application attracting a total of 194 comments, including 185 objections.

"For the reasons stated above, an inquiry is considered the most (and only) appropriate method for determining the appeal. There is no basis for the appeal to be determined by way of any other procedure and to do so would seriously prejudice the appellant's case and would risk an unnecessary and costly adjournment."

------------

READ MORE: Body of man found in canal in Newcastle-under-Lyme

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stoke Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our city.

Subscribe to our FREE weekly newsletter email HERE - just click the 'SIGN UP' button.

Please consider following Stoke Nub News on Facebook or Twitter.