Cheshire East Council has refused to grant permission in principle for up to nine affordable homes on land off Plant Lane at Moston near Sandbach.

Mark Linge wants to build the dwellings on a vacant site described as 'cleared land with no agricultural value and separated from any agrarian holdings'.

A planning statement submitted by Lambert Smith Hampton on behalf of the applicant, said the 0.35 hectare site is 'far too small to be used in any viable way for agriculture or horticulture'.

It said the site can successfully offer a mix of dwelling sizes and styles and the proposal would deliver a mix of two, three and four-bedroom properties.

But Cheshire East planning officers refused the application saying: "The proposal would not integrate into the rural surrounding context and would have a conspicuous urbanising effect that would fail to respect the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside."

Approximately 30 letters of objection were sent to Cheshire East Council from residents.

Concerns included lack of parking and highway safety, lack of amenities close to the site, erosion of open space and wildlife and biodiversity loss concerns.

Moston Parish Council also objected citing numerous reasons including the site is within the open countryside and in close proximity to the Trent and Mersey Canal.

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The parish council also said it acts as a buffer between the natural and built environment so it is vital to maintain the distinction.