HOUSING developments and the loss of public space are still cause for concern in Middlewich despite an area of public land being saved.

On Tuesday, November 25, Congleton Borough Council approved an application by Morris Developments Ltd for 12 homes on land off Lewin Street.

And the developers amended their application to increase the area reserved for public open space following a concerted effort by residents to encourage them to change their plans.

In the months leading up to the decision, strong opposition to the application was being voiced in the community.

In October the Guardian reported residents' concerns and objections to the plans, which included 15 homes.

Resident Eric Siddon, of Maidenhills, and Middlewich Town Council were united in their concerns over the loss of open public space and called for the developers to return to the drawing board.

Talking about the planning decision Mr Siddon said: "It is excellent. The application was reduced from 15 dwellings to 12. What is good is that there is a legal agreement that secures the maintenance of the public space for 25 years.

"Our efforts have definitely paid off. I am very happy and it is a good all round result."

However, the issue of over provision of housing and the use of land in the town is still a concern for town councillors.

Middlewich Town Mayor Alison Roylance-White said: "If we had a choice we would prefer to have no new additional buildings whatsoever but this development is in an area that is not so

well used."

A spokesperson for Morris Developments Ltd said: "The site will contain a small development of houses from affordable two bedroom homes to larger four bedroom detached houses.

"An area of open space with footpath links for the local community to gain access to the canal is included in the scheme.

"The development has been carefully designed to transform the existing scrubland into a pleasant environment that will enhance the surrounding area.

"Construction work will start in the New Year and the properties should be available for sale in the summer."

jdriscoll@guardiangrp.co.uk