A new park could be built in a Stockport village as part of plans to construct more homes in the area. Richborough, a residential land promoter, has unveiled early proposals for a new residential development in the heart of Woodford off Jenny Lane. The site, currently farmland and fields enclosed by existing houses on all sides, is located close to the Manchester Airport Eastern Link Road.
Development Details
The firm stated that the land could facilitate the delivery of up to 190 homes and 'create a sustainable and attractive residential neighbourhood, set within a generous green infrastructure framework including areas of public open space and children's play areas.' They are promising that at least 50% of the homes, approximately 38 units, will be classified as affordable. The site, which is currently private, would be opened up to the public and the wider community for enjoyment. This would include 'generous' green areas, a new children's play area, and improved vehicle, pedestrian, and cycling routes.
Site Layout and Features
A drawing of the site suggests that homes could be built to the north-west and south-east, along with new areas of public open space, a new play area in the middle, and several 'development parcels' across the site. The plans also include rain gardens and other measures to address potential drainage issues.
Environmental Assessments
Developers have indicated that a number of surveys and assessments will be conducted regarding transport, the environment, trees, landscape impact, drainage, and flood risk. Regarding the latter, Richborough said: 'The site is within Flood Zone 1, which is identified as having a low probability of flooding. However, it is acknowledged that surface water can be seen on the site during the wetter months.' They added: 'On site surveys indicate that, subject to proposed mitigation measures, the emerging development proposals can be delivered without resulting in increased flood risk impacts either on-site or within the wider surrounding area.'
Public Consultation
Residents are being asked for feedback on the proposal before plans are submitted to Stockport Council. On a page on planning consultant Asteer Planning's website, Richborough stated that the site could be developed as 'grey belt' despite currently being classified as green belt. As Stockport Council prepares a new Local Plan to guide future developments, Richborough noted: 'The council does not have enough land within the urban area to build the houses it needs and already has a significant undersupply of housing to address. This means the Council needs to identify land outside of the urban areas.' People have until June 22 to comment on the plans.
