Osborne constituents want Knutsford ‘design code’
RESIDENTS in Knutsford, the heart of Chancellor George Osborne’s constituency in East Cheshire, are calling for a design code and masterplan to protect the town’s unique character from inappropriate new development.
The news comes after local property owner, the Tatton Estate and internationally renowned architect John Simpson, held a number of community events earlier this summer to ask local people about their views on how best plan for growth in Knutsford.
Some 200 people attended the events and 95% of respondents agreed that a design code would be a good thing for the town.
As part of these community events, award winning architect John Simpson was invited by the Tatton Estate to highlight how other towns had benefited from design codes and masterplans.
Cheshire East Council’s Local Plan is sure to be resumed later this year. Major changes including the increase of housing targets, from 27,000 to 36,000 dwellings, the economic growth rate from 0.4% to 0.7%, the number of jobs from 13,000 to 31,400, and the amount of employment land from 351 to 380 hectares.
Henry Brooks, of the Tatton Estate, said: “We are delighted with the overwhelming support shown for a design code in Knutsford.
“The ongoing Neighbourhood Plan process provides a unique opportunity to shape the town and ensure its special heritage is protected.
“We would urge the community to get in contact with Knutsford Town Council and Cheshire East Council to ensure a Design Code is at the heart of the neighbourhood planning process so we can secure a sustainable future for Knutsford. The debate needs to focus on quality and not just quantity.”
Simpson added: “Community-led masterplanning can manage local ambitions and achieve a higher standard of planning that complements existing town centres whilst providing new local facilities.”
