A developer has launched a campaigning website backing a plan for 300 homes and a 650-space park and ride site.
BDW Group, comprising Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, wants to deliver the scheme on green belt land off Hoole Road, Hoole, owned by Mannings Lane Developments Ltd, whose directors include brother Mike and Dave Bell who were behind the failed student village plan.
Cheshire West and Chester Council recently approved its transport strategy which identifies the need for a park and ride on Hoole Road.
BDW Group’s website – www.hooleroad.co.uk – says it “is offering an opportunity for the council to deliver this vital piece of transport infrastructure at no cost to local taxpayers, a significant benefit at a time of continuing cuts to local authority budgets”.
Delivered as part of a 300-homes scheme, the service would include a passenger waiting area, travel information centre, coffee shop, newsagent, cycle hire and toilets.
BDW is garnering support for the project ahead of an examination-in-public of the council’s draft Local Plan which will take place at Chester Town Hall from June 17.
A company spokesman said: “A new park and ride at Hoole Road would boost the Chester economy, create jobs and reduce congestion on a key route into the city. BDW Group will be pursuing allocation of the Hoole Road Park and Ride, and associated enabling development, through the Local Plan process.”
Although there are already four park and ride sites, the network does not offer a service for people commuting or visiting from a north easterly direction.
BDW Group argues the release of green belt land will have ‘dramatic benefits that justify this decision’.
