A protest took place today at Tatton Park as Cheshire East Council met to discuss strategic planning matters, including the contentious proposal for a new town development at Adlington. The meeting was moved to the larger Tenants’ Hall to accommodate heightened public interest and expected demonstrations.
Residents from across the community gathered outside the venue, with strong representation from the Adlington Greenbelt Facebook group, the largest local opposition network.
During the council meeting, local resident Sarah Burrows delivered a passionate and eloquent speech on behalf of supporters of the Adlington Greenbelt group. She emphasised that the proposal was not just about additional housing or infrastructure pressures, but about the permanent and irreversible loss of greenbelt land, heritage, and centuries-old landscapes. She highlighted that the land includes ancient woodland, veteran trees, centuries-old hedgerows, and productive farmland, all vital to biodiversity and the local food supply. Burrows also warned of environmental consequences, including increased flood risk and the destruction of natural flood management systems, and criticised the bypassing of local consultation and democratic processes. She urged councillors to prioritise brownfield sites over Greenbelt and to safeguard the countryside for future generations.
After debate, the council voted unanimously to oppose the creation of a new town at Adlington, citing concerns over sustainability, environmental impact, and effects on local communities.
The combination of public protest and a 70 to 0 vote underscored the strength of local resistance. Campaigners welcomed the outcome, saying it offers a glimmer of hope, and pledged to continue scrutinising future planning proposals and to keep fighting against any plans that threaten the Adlington greenbelt.