Community consultation launched on controversial housing scheme development
Kellen Homes, in partnership with Great Places Housing Group and the Land Trust, have launched a community feedback drive as it prepares a Reserved Matters application for the Mirrlees Fields development in Stockport.
The development received outline planning approval in January 2024, when the Planning Inspectorate reversed Stockport Council’s refusal of planning permission.
Granting planning permission, the Inspector noted that the appeal would authorise and guarantee greater public access across the appeal site and concluded that any adverse impacts of granting planning permission, would not outweigh the benefits of the proposal.
The scheme will deliver 100% affordable housing comprising Shared Ownership and Rented Properties, supported by grant funding.
Additionally, the development includes more than 18 hectares of publicly accessible open space, which will be managed and maintained by the Land Trust, for the local community’s benefit in perpetuity.
As Kellen Homes prepares its Reserved Matters application, which provides specific details such as the appearance, layout, scale, and landscaping of the overall development, it is seeking public input to shape the final plans.
Mark Calvert, Land Director from Kellen Homes, said: “This Reserved Matters application is a critical step in delivering a development that blends affordable housing with a large publicly accessible open space.
CGI of proposed park space
“Our goal is not only to meet the much needed affordable housing needs of Stockport but also to improve the local environment with a significant biodiversity uplift, creating a lasting legacy of green space and natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.”
Nick Gornall, Director of Development at Great Places, said: “Our proposals, including plans for adaptable homes at Mirrlees Fields, are essential to addressing the urgent need for high quality, affordable and accessible housing for both rent and shared ownership in the area.
“We believe engaging with local residents on the planned development is crucial. Their insights will help shape our proposals to ensure they reflect the needs and aspirations of the community.”
He added: “Working together, we can create a development that not only provides much needed homes, but also enhances the local environment and fosters a sense of belonging.”
A two-week consultation period opened Monday, October 28, and will run to Monday, November 11, allowing the community to provide feedback on various aspects of the project, including housing design and plans for the publicly accessible open space.
Detailed information on the proposed Reserved Matters application is available at www.mirrleesfields-consultation.co.uk. Here, residents can complete an online questionnaire to provide their views on the reserved matters proposals.
Feedback, questions, or requests for paper copies of consultation materials can also be sent to info@mirrleesfields-consultation.co.uk or by calling 0161-669 5035.
Subject to obtaining consent for the reserved matters, Kellen Homes and Great Places are aiming to start on site in 2025.
