A DECISION is due on controversial plans for 14 homes on unused land next to Mouldsworth Railway Station.

A Cheshire West and Chester Council planning officer is expected to give their verdict on the proposal today (Thursday, February 24).

Mark Knowles of Knowles Development Ltd, who has owned the industrial land since 2002, wants to build 2-4 bedroom homes on the former coal goods depot yard.

The plan has faced opposition from a number of residents who do not want a residential development in the village or the increased traffic they say it would cause.

Mouldsworth Parish Council is also opposed to the application, saying the development would increase the number of properties in the village by 12.5%.

Network Rail have also objected because they claim the proposal encroaches onto their land.

Sally Buttifant, of Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership, says they are positive about residential development that brings more rail passengers travelling to and from Mouldsworth Station.

However, she says the group would be concerned if access to the development restricted rail passenger parking.

J10 Planning, who submitted the application on behalf of Mr Knowles, said: “We consider that 14 units strikes the right balance and will provide the ability to deliver some meaningful affordable housing.

“The applicant is not a developer but will, subject to planning permission being granted, be looking to either dispose of the site to a residential developer or enter into a joint venture.”

Mr Knowles has had three planning applications for commercial use of the site refused in the past.

In January 2002, a proposal for a visitor parking area, office and workshop building was dismissed, along with plans for maintenance yard offices and a workshop building, which was submitted in August of the same year.

Mr Knowles then applied to build a single storey office building and a vehicle store in December 2002, which was also refused.