The Reimagining New Towns event at Alliance Manchester Business School gathered academics, students, and local voices to discuss the government’s shortlist of twelve potential new town sites.
Dame Kate Barker, Deputy Chair of the New Towns Taskforce, explained that the process had been fast and confidential, with wider consultation only beginning now. It felt very much a case of “less haste, more speed” — decisions made quickly, with the detail to follow.
Key priorities were said to include social infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and stronger community engagement, along with major transport and utility upgrades by 2030. Yet I couldn’t help noticing the irony of hearing “sustainability” praised while learning that two shortlisted sites, Crews Hill in north London and Adlington in Cheshire East, sit on Greenbelt land. The environmental loss from building there would far outweigh any supposed gain.
It was also worrying to hear that Greenbelt status may no longer offer protection. Barker and government adviser Professor Philip McCann agreed that the National Planning Policy Framework is no longer fit for purpose and that the Greenbelt should not be seen as untouchable.
Adlington dominated the open discussion thanks to passionate local voices. I left convinced that our community must stay loud and united. The few landowners involved may benefit, but residents stand to lose most. Individually, we may not hold much power, but together we can make it clear that Adlington is not an easy target. This fight has only just begun.
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