LABOUR candidate Pat Merrick has rubbished Tory plans to reform the planning process in Eddisbury.

Cllr Merrick, who is hoping to loosen MP Stephen O’Brien’s tight grip on the Eddisbury seat, believes the recently released Conservative planning manifesto will lead to a lack of development in the area.

Deputy Labour Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council Merrick, who has a keen interest in health matters, housing and the arts, said that housing needs were central to Eddisbury’s future.

Her objection was in response to Shadow Health Minister Mr O’Brien’s backing of the Conservative policy.

She said: “I read that with a sigh of weariness, it looks like a quote from Tory central office. I don’t think that is Stephen O’Brien talking at all.

“I resent the fact that the Tories are objecting to quangos when they introduced them under Margaret Thatcher.

“If you do away with the regional strategy then it will end up with ward councillor against ward councillor defending their areas with a ‘not in my back yard’ attitude.

“Sometimes you need an outsider to come in and say look this has to happen.”

Mr O’Brien told The Chronicle the planning process needs to be reformed and that the Tories’ Open Source planning policy is the answer.

He said: “Labour’s planning system is a source of immense frustration and concern. The Government’s planning rules have become too complex with many decisions on local issues being taken by unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats.

“This Conservative vision will breathe new life into the system and will put Eddisbury and Cheshire residents firmly in the driving seat to help shape our communities.”