WINSFORD residents are mobilising to fight another speculative housing development in one of the town’s most scenic locations.

The Save Winsford Flashes group have already had their work cut out battling planning applications in Ways Green and the St Chad’s Conservation Area.

Now campaigners are faced with another unwanted addition – 243 new homes on the shores of the Winsford’s top beauty spot.

“There's already likely to be 500 plus extra cars on the narrow residential roads in the surrounding area, based on developments near the Conservative Club, Cow Lane and St Chads Conservation Area,” said group member, Terry Baxter.

“Residents don't feel that an extra 500 cars again from this planned development can be sustained.”

Bellway Home’s planned development falls only partly within the STC 2 development area in the Winsford Neighbourhood Plan (NP), with a large proportion of houses occupying land earmarked for improved public space and a cycle route.

Clr Brian Clarke said Bellway speculative development was another reason that residents should vote to adopt the Neighbourhood Plan at a forthcoming referendum in October.

“We’ve allocated 94 houses for STC 2 in the Neighbourhood Plan. This development far exceeds that and anything that the people of Winsford have asked for.”

If Winsfordians vote adopt NP, the document will become a material consideration in planning applications – granting increased protection to areas not earmarked for future housing or employment land.

Mr Baxter added: “There are other far less sensitive areas of town that could be developed.

“Winsford Flashes are the town’s greatest asset used by many town residents and valued by many more.

“This development will greatly reduce its atmosphere and attractiveness and once that's gone what's left to attract people to come here or stay in town?”