TIME is running out for people to object to plans which could see housing built on three of Middlewich's remaining open spaces.

Cllr Paul Edwards is calling on residents to act now to save land behind Niddries on Lewin Street, off St Michael's Way, and Buckley's Field - the site of the town's community dig - which are threatened by last minute alterations to Congleton Borough Council's Local Development Framework.

He said: 'These plans would see 85 houses built on the sites. I know that people can be reluctant to complain but time is running out - we have to make our objections known before these plans go before the council on Thursday, December 14.

'The plan was to have these houses in Sandbach and Congleton but residents there made a huge number of complaints and that will be what pushed these changes to be made. As these are alterations, there won't be a full public consultation, but if people contact me I will ensure their views are heard.'

Cllr Edwards believes there are many reasons for residents to oppose the plans. He said: 'This was not part of the original consultation and Middlewich is already over developed. We need to be relieving traffic, not adding to it.'

The council itself admitted Middlewich would be unable to sustain more development without better infrastructure. In its original LDF planning chiefs stated: 'Middlewich has experienced significant growth in recent years which it is unlikely to be able to sustain without considerable investment in infrastructure and facilities.

'Opportunities for further housing growth are limited due to land constraints.

'Although there are significant areas of derelict land, much of this is unsuitable or likely to be unavailable for housing use.'

Cllr Edwards added: 'Our doctors and dentists are full and we saw a drop in water pressure during the warmer months at the extremities of the town because there is already so much demand.'

To make your concerns known, write to: Cllr Paul Edwards, Congleton Borough Council, Westfields, Middlewich Road, Sandbach CW11 1HZ or e-mail borough@pauledwards.org.

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What do you think of the plans? Telephone: 01606 42272 E-mail: midcheshire.news @cheshirenews.co.uk