This summary is based on the Stop Adlington New Town mailing list report summary emails (so far, more is to follow).
The report begins with a simple question. Is a new town at Adlington needed at all?
It separates the issue of strategic need from the practical challenges of delivery. There is little value in discussing how to deliver a new town if there is no clear and compelling case for building one in this location.
No Proven Strategic Need
Greater Manchester has identified housing supply through to at least 2042. Cheshire East’s housing requirement is distributed across the borough rather than concentrated on its northern edge.
The evidence does not demonstrate that large scale Green Belt release at Adlington is necessary.
Poor Strategic Fit
Adlington would be unlikely to function as a genuinely standalone new town. Given its proximity to Greater Manchester, it would primarily operate as a commuter settlement.
The site is constrained by its position next to the Peak District National Park and by limited east to west transport links. Rail capacity towards Manchester is already stretched and significant road and infrastructure upgrades would be required.
Green Belt, Environment and Farming
The site lies within the North Cheshire Green Belt. National policy requires exceptional circumstances to justify any boundary change. It has not been shown that alternatives have been exhausted or that the wider impact on the Green Belt has been properly assessed.
A December 2025 report by Cheshire Wildlife Trust identifies the area as environmentally sensitive, with ancient woodland, species rich grassland and important wildlife habitat.
Development would remove around 2,500 acres of Green Belt and productive farmland, including Best and Most Versatile land that supports established farming businesses.
Lack of Local Support
Adlington was the only shortlisted site not endorsed by its local authority. Opposition is unanimous within Cheshire East Council and includes local councils, CPRE, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, farmers and residents.
Conclusion
The report concludes that the case for a new town at Adlington is weak, poorly evidenced and unsupported locally. It would result in permanent environmental loss and major infrastructure challenges without a clear strategic justification.
A decision of this scale requires strong and transparent evidence. That standard has not been met.
Every action counts. Decisions of this scale are rare and permanent – your voice matters.
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