Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order finalised for Blacon

Cheshire West and Chester Council has now formally ‘made’ the Blacon Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order, following a successful referendum on 20th August 2026.

Neighbourhood plans are prepared by local residents and give communities the opportunity to have a greater say over the future development in their areas. The Blacon Neighbourhood Plan has taken several years of hard work and public consultation.  

A Neighbourhood Development Order deems planning permission to have been granted for a specific development within a Neighbourhood Area. The Blacon Neighbourhood Development Order grants outline planning permission for the erection of a sports and community hub building of up to 3,120 sq m floorspace on land off Cairns Crescent, Blacon.

Out of those who voted, 91% agreed that Cheshire West and Chester Council should use the Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order for Blacon to help it decide planning applications in the area.

This brings the total number of made neighbourhood plans in the borough to 30.

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

“I am delighted that the Blacon Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order have now been successfully completed. Together, they represent a significant achievement for the local community and will help deliver an important new community facility that will enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of residents for years to come.

“This has only been possible through the dedication, hard work and commitment of local people and members of the Neighbourhood Forum, who have invested a great deal of time and effort throughout the process. I would like to thank everyone involved for their contribution in reaching this important milestone.

“Now that the Plan and Order are in place, they will play a key role in shaping future development within the Blacon Neighbourhood Area. All development proposals will need to take full account of the policies that have been prepared, supported and voted for by the local community, ensuring that future growth reflects residents’ aspirations and priorities. The Neighbourhood Development Order grants outline planning permission for a new sports and community building, which has the potential to become a valuable new facility for local residents once constructed”.

The Plan includes a detailed vision and objectives for Blacon and four policies relating to the proposals for the sports and community hub building, community facilities in Blacon, Western Avenue local retail centre and the designation of Local Green Spaces.