Referendum to approve neighbourhood plan likely to shape Helsby's future

Helsby could be facing two referendums to shape its future in the space of two months.

If it goes ahead, the public will decide on the neighbourhood plan which sets out developments in sport, housing, employment and the environment.

A Cheshire West and Chester Council report said if preparations were finished ‘promptly’ the vote could be held on May 5 with the UK's referendum on EU membership following on June 23.

Neighbourhood plans set a framework for all planning applications in each parish.

A report by CWaC head of places strategy Alison Knight said they were ‘committed to supporting neighbourhood planning’ across the borough.

It said: “Neighbourhood planning enables communities to establish a vision for their area and put in place planning policies to achieve it.”

The plan has been three years in the making by a steering group acting on behalf of Helsby Parish Council.

Parish council vice chairman Terry O’Neill said: “We are very pleased especially after all the hard work that’s been put in.

“Having a plan safeguards the way that Helsby and it’s residents want the neighbourhood to develop.

“It was our main objective to make sure the area doesn’t get overdeveloped and as part of that we’ve included the things people want to keep such as a new community sports club.”

Designs for the new Helsby Community Sports Club feature a multi-use sports hall, modern changing rooms and 3G 11-a-side football pitch.

A Section 106 agreement means 120 homes will be built alongside it.

While final decisions will still be made by CWaC, the framework ‘will give local people the power to decide where new housing should go, how employment, retail and leisure facilities should develop and how the village should change’.

CWaC had forwarded the plan submitted by the steering group to an independent examiner who has given his stamp of approval.

Examiner Andrew Ashcroft said: “The plan sets out a positive vision for the future of the area and promotes sustainable growth.

Related:Norley neighbourhood plan set for stamp of approval

“At its heart are a suite of policies that set out to implement the strategic approach included in the adopted local plan whilst respecting the very distinctive landscape and topography.”

A final decision on whether a referendum will be held is not expected before March 16.

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