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Macclesfield regeneration delayed for retail investigation

Cheshire East’s council leader Michael Jones has postponed development plans for Macclesfield’s town centre and called for an independant retail investigation.

An assessment of the town’s retail centre is needed before any regeneration work goes ahead, according to Cllr Jones.

Following a six week consultation period that just ended, the council will analyse data collected from the assessment to feedback to its Strategic Planning Board (SPB) , who will then balance findings against national, regional and local planning policies.

Cllr Jones said the review will look into whether retail development is needed in Macclesfield’s centre, and how such a scheme would impact on the look of the town as well as peripheral infrastructure needs like parking.

He commented: “It is important that this Council listens and gives due consideration to the views of Macclesfield’s residents and businesses.

“I have been working with local MP David Rutley to fully understand the needs of the town and to ensure that the vision becomes a reality. It is for this reason that I have now called for this independent assessment.”

The SPB will make the final decision for Macclesfield on what was called a “landmark application” for the town, while the review date has been delayed from 20th March in light of Cllr Jones’ comments.

He concluded: “This planning application is too important to rush and get wrong. It is vitally important that we put the best information before members – and get it right for the people of Macclesfield.

“As a Council we are committed to growing the economy of Cheshire East to make it a better place to live, work, do business and visit.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .