PLANS to build a large residential development in Rudheath look in jeopardy after Vale Royal Borough Council's planning chief admitted he was unlikely to recommend it.
The application to build nearly 400 houses on old industrial land has caused concern among residents, who believe the application getting the go-ahead would lead to serious traffic problems in Middlewich Road.
At a meeting of the Northwich Area Working Group last week Richard Ellison, head of planning at the borough council, said: 'There are some major issues with the land east of Middlewich Road in Rudheath.
'There is no certainty that it will go ahead. My view is that the application as it is submitted is unlikely to receive a favourable recommendation from me.'
Mr Ellison will submit a report to the planning committee, which will use his recommendation among other factors to decide the fate of the site.
Vale Royal councillor for Rudheath Tony Lawrenson objected to the application on traffic grounds and, after hearing Mr Ellison's comments, said: 'Everybody in Rudheath will be very pleased if this does not go ahead.
'I would like to thank the people who have written letters and held protest meetings, as it looks as though common sense has prevailed.'
Andy Frost from HOW Planners, which is behind the application, said: 'Further detailed work has to be carried out on the application at the request of the planners.
'There is also the issue of the principle of the development as we have put it forward.
'We will now be discussing this and responding to the council in due course.'
