Failed Planning Applications in Alsager, Cheshire East | January - August 2023

Over the course of 2023, numerous planning applications within Alsager encountered rejection. For future applicants, understanding the foundations behind these denials is paramount to ensure their projects are in line with local planning guidelines. Below is a synthesis of the reasons for refusal according to the provided data:

1. Detriment to the Street Scene’s Character and Appearance

·     The proposals were found to negatively influence the visual integrity and overall aesthetic of the street scene.

·     These developments contradicted Policies SE1(Design) and SD2 (Sustainable Development Principles) of the Cheshire EastLocal Plan Strategy.

·     Further discrepancies were noted with Policy GEN1 (Design Principles) of the Site Allocations and Development Plan Policies Document and Policy H6 (Housing Design) of the Alsager Neighbourhood Plan.

2. Inadequate Private Amenity Space

·     The proposed development failed to provide a sufficient private amenity space for the prospective occupants of the new dwelling.

·     Such shortcomings were deemed contrary to Policy HOU 13 (Residential Standards) of the Site Allocations and DevelopmentPlan Policies Document, Policy SD2 of the Cheshire East Local Plan Strategy, and Policy H6 of the Alsager Neighbourhood Plan.

3. Insufficient Residential Amenity Due to Limited Internal Floor Space

·     On multiple occasions, the proposed dwellings were rejected due to their small internal floorspace, which did not meet the Nationally Described Space Standard (NDSS).

·     These proposals were at odds with policiesHOU8 and HOU12 of the Cheshire East Site Allocations and Development Policies Document.

Informatives:

• The Local Planning Authority (LPA) adhered to the guidelines set forth in paragraph 38 of the National Planning Policy Framework throughout the decision-making process. The Framework encourages the LPA to collaborate proactively with applicants to foster developments that augment the region's economic, environmental, and social facets.
• Despite the given guidance and collaborative attempts, no resolution was achieved that would mitigate the identified environmental drawbacks.
• For clarity, the decisions were based on the drawings referenced H7269/MF02, H7269-MF03 received on 4th July 2023, H7269/MF01 Rev #, and the Location Plan received on 28th June 2023.

Conclusion

For those who plan to submit future applications in Alsager, a thorough grasp of these refusals can be instrumental. Recognising the factors leading to the rejection of prior applications, potential applicants can tailor their designs more adeptly, thus better maneuvering the intricate planning terrain of Alsager.

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