Controversial new Audlem development set to be refused

Cheshire East Council planners have advised rejecting Muller Property Group’s outline application for 116 homes—including 35 affordable units—on land west of Moorsfield Avenue and Tollgate Drive in Audlem. The recommendation, set for a May 27 vote, highlights significant landscape damage, harm to the area’s character, and the need for extensive engineering works due to steep topography near the River Weaver and Shropshire Union Canal. Over 340 objections were lodged, with critics citing increased traffic congestion, safety risks near drainage features, and negative impacts on Audlem’s conservation area and agricultural land. The Audlem Parish Council opposed the plan, arguing it would degrade the village’s heritage and create unsafe, uneven play areas. Residents also warned of worsened traffic at key junctions like Tollgate Drive and Whitchurch Road. Despite these concerns, the council’s report acknowledges the development would address Cheshire East’s housing shortage and provide economic benefits. It notes the site’s sustainable location near Audlem’s village center and limited bus services, though it concludes the proposal lacks sufficient mitigation for ecological, flood, and archaeological risks. The report also states the site’s best agricultural land would be lost, further weighing against approval. A lone supporter, Audlem St James Primary School, argued the project would meet urgent demand for family housing, particularly affordable options. The strategic planning board will decide the application’s fate during a May 27 meeting at Crewe Municipal Buildings, starting at 10:30 AM.