WINWICK Parish Council has formally called on Warrington Borough Council to remove the Peel Hall site from any future drafts its local plan.

The parish council will be making its views known to council chief executive Steven Broomhead and the executive board in writing, as they await the decision of the public inquiry into Satnam's planning application to build 1,200 homes on the land.

The Planning Inspectorate confirmed a decision on the appeal against the council's decision to refuse Satnam's proposals will be announced by January 7.

Parish councillor Chris Vobe, who represents the Peel Hall ward, said he is proud to be working alongside residents in the campaign to save the site.

He added: "We remain hopeful that the inspector will rule in our favour when he delivers his final decision into the latest application submitted by Satnam.

"If he does so, then we are seeking the council's commitment to removing Peel Hall from any future drafts of their local plan.

"Members of Winwick Parish Council are steadfast in their opposition to any development of the land and we do not recognise it as a site which is either suitable or sustainable for housing.

"As a parish council, we have instructed a planning consultant who has met with senior officers at the Town Hall.

"They have advised us that it is currently their intention to retain the Peel Hall site in future drafts of the local plan.

"It is our view that this is simply unacceptable.

"If other sites have to be found to meet the housing need in the borough, then officers need to turn their attention to finding them.

"Across north Warrington, the hearts and minds of people are behind the campaign to protect Peel Hall.

"There is no doubt that there would be massive public support behind removing Peel Hall from the local plan and identifying alternatives.

"We are therefore unanimously calling on the borough council to do just that, as soon as the inspector's decision is delivered."