HS2 moving forward as plans for sites near Crewe approved

The council could only refuse the plans on the grounds the development should and could 'be carried out elsewhere within the development’s permitted limits'

Plans relating to HS2 work sites south of Crewe have been approved by Cheshire East Council. The plans relate to five sites, primarily on farmland between Shavington and Hough.

Planning permission for the Birmingham to Crewe stretch of the line was granted under The High Speed Rail (West Midlands to Crewe) Act 2021. HS2 Ltd must only submit planning applications for the approval of permanent fences and gates, among other specifications.

As such, this application dealt only with permanent fences, ten vehicular access gates and seven pedestrian access gates to the sites, four of which are close to Weston Lane, with one adjacent to Larch Avenue. The council may only refuse to approve plans or specifications on the grounds that: ‘The development ought to, and could reasonably, be carried out elsewhere within the development’s permitted limits.’

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Weston and Crewe Green Parish Council raised what it called 'major concerns,' whilst an objection was made on behalf of two residents of Larch Avenue and the freeholder of five properties. The plans were approved, and a list of ‘informatives’ were included in the decision notice, including the installation of the ‘most accessible’ pedestrian access gates and that advance onsite notice should be provided if public rights of way are to be temporarily closed.

The Parish Council raised “no objection to the works on these sites with the exception of those proposed to the north of Weston Lane Basford.” The council described “major concerns” relating to screening at the rear of properties.

In its objection, the local parish council states it "has lobbied long and hard for proper structure and buffer planting to separate these dwellings from the very large compound to be provided as part of the construction works between Weston Lane and the Shavington bypass.

"This compound is likely to be in situ for more than five years along with the haul road! Issues here include proper screening, noise protection and light mitigation.

"The planting in this general location is shown as a very thin strip and the description of the planting is vague to say the least. It won't in our judgement provide sufficient protection for these residents.

"The result will be a diminution of their quality of life for the lengthy period that construction works are likely to be taking place in the immediate vicinity.

The Parish Council adds: "The Parish Council note that there has been no local resident consultation in relation to this planting and its implications."

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