COUNCILLORS overturned objections to outline plans for 14 homes in a former goods yard.

The development was proposed near Mouldsworth Station in Station Road by Mark Knowles.

The resubmitted application was called in to Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning committee by Cllr Eleanor Johnson (Con, Gowy) due to the effect on the community.

Objections were raised by Mouldsworth Parish Council which claimed the development would be out of keeping and the views of Mouldsworth residents had been misrepresented.

Of 20 neighbours who were notified, a nearby occupier supported the scheme as it would tidy up the redundant railway land.

Objectors raised a range of issues.

Planners believed that residential use would be appropriate and pointed out there was a need for affordable homes in the ward.

They felt, however, that a suggested layout put forward by the developer could be more imaginative and varied.

Objector Mr Richard Monkhouse described the new build as "a large development for a small village" and pointed out the access would be over land not owned by the developer.

Chairman of Mouldsworth Parish Council, Cllr Geraint Jones, raised a detailed objection and said:"If you did support this application, this would completely contradict the views of the parish council and the community.

“Apart from one resident the opposition is total and unanimous".

In a letter to the committee, Cllr Johnson argued that if there was a demand for homes in Mouldsworth, the site would have been developed.

Agent Mr Justin Paul of Chester based J 10 Planning said 77% of those responding to a consultation had been in favour of the scheme and only ‘a handful of local people’ had expressed concerns.

Councillors voted 9-2 to agree outline permission with a note to the developers they would expect an ‘appropriate layout’ to be achieved.