Council asks for suggestions of sites for future development

Cheshire West and Chester Council is asking people, including landowners, to suggest sites that might be available for development in the future as part of an evidence base consultation for a new Local Plan.

The Council’s Cabinet on 10 January decided to prepare a new Local Plan under the new national system for plan-making that will begin at the end of 2024. Local Plans are key documents that shape development in the borough through sites allocated for different types of uses including housing and employment.

This is an opportunity for people to suggest sites that they would like to be considered as part of the preparation of the future Local Plan. It will help the Council to understand what land might be available for different uses.  

This exercise, known as a ‘call for sites’, enables the Council to understand what land could be available for development but does not mean that all sites submitted will be included in the Local Plan. The Council will consider all sites submitted as the plan is drawn up and there will be an opportunity for people to help shape the plan and comment on any proposals at a later date.

Councillor Christine Warner, Cabinet Member for Homes, Planning and Safer Communities, said:

“This is an important part of updating the evidence base for our new Local Plan which we will begin preparing later this year. The plan will identify sites to help meet the Borough’s needs for jobs, homes and open space whilst ensuring our environment is protected. It is a great opportunity to create sustainable growth in the Borough and to make best use of our land for employment, living and leisure.

“A call for sites is a way for people to suggest sites that might be available for development in the future. We welcome all ideas big or small. This might also include potential land for green spaces, nature conservation enhancement and other uses.”

The call for sites will begin from 26 January 2024.

More information on the Local Plan Evidence Base consultation and call for sites is available by visiting: 

Planning Policy consultations