Leverhulme Estates has submitted early plans to Wirral Council for up to 140 homes on green belt land north of Milner Road in Heswall. The developer argues the site, covering more than eight hectares, "makes no contribution" to "green belt purposes" and therefore qualifies as grey belt, a category for poorer quality green belt land.
Outline Planning Application Details
The plans are at an early stage, seeking outline planning permission to establish the principle of a housing development on the land. If approved, a subsequent application for full planning permission would likely follow. The development is expected to include two to four bedroom homes, with 35% designated as affordable. Vehicular access would be provided via junctions on Barnston Road and Milner Road.
Transport Links and Developer's Vision
The submitted plans highlight the site's proximity to public transport, noting that Heswall railway station is a short walk away and offers regular services to Wrexham and Bidston. From Bidston, passengers can access the Merseyrail network across the region.
Leverhulme's "vision" for the site states: "Land to the north of Milner Road will become a characterful new Heswall neighbourhood with beautiful homes set on leafy streets, reflecting the design ethos of Leverhulme. The development will provide a range of home sizes and tenures to meet local needs, enhanced areas of habitat, a community park, play area, and community orchard. It will create new walking and cycling routes towards local facilities including part of the borough’s proposed Cycle Super Greenway."
Councillor's Opposition
Local councillor Kathy Hodson, of the Reform UK party, told the ECHO she is firmly against the plans, saying she "will be fighting it all the way." She added: "There is a need for housing in Wirral, but developments must be appropriate and in the right places, and we must listen to residents."
