A CONTROVERSIAL planning application for up to 215 homes in Winsford that was refused by Cheshire West and Chester Council has been resubmitted.

The proposals, which earmarked farmland off Rilshaw Lane, were thrown out by the Strategic Planning Committee last November after being recommended for refusal by officers.

The planning application was refused because it represented 'piecemeal development' - meaning the developers were trying to push through their entire development in pieces rather than as a whole - and failed to ensure the mixed use development of the Station Quarter Urban Extension.

Gladman Developments' proposals were also met with much opposition from residents, who say the fresh application should also be rejected.

John Doherty, of the Rilshaw Lane Action Group, said: "Recent changes in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) should make it even more difficult for a planning application of this type to be approved without considerable and costly mitigation to be provided by Gladman Developments.

"The NPPF clearly states that it is now policy for infrastructure improvements to come forward for large scale developments of which these initial 215 houses would be part of a major urban extension to the town.

"CWAC and Winsford Town Council at present do not have an adopted infrastructure plan. This application should therefore be considered premature and contrary to national planning policy."

Mr Doherty argues that without a community infrastructure levy in place, a levy that allows local authorities in England and Wales to charge on new developments in their area, Gladman Developments' planning application will have a negative impact on Winsford's infrastructure.

He added: "For these reasons, this application should be refused as it contrary to current government policy."

Many of those who opposed the initial application have come forward to oppose the fresh application.

Letters of objection must be made by April 17 quoting ref: 15/01032/OUT either by mail or by email on the CWAC planning portal.

A planning application hearing date has not yet been set.

One resident, Steve Bennett of Firtree Close, said: "This is currently beautiful countryside, that once lost, will never be enjoyed by future generations.

"I am confident that a lot of people stand to make a lot of money out of the housing developments in Winsford.

"The current residents however will have to face the consequences that it will bring them."