The planning inquiry into the proposed 'top notch' Tatton Services concluded yesterday, with both Cheshire East Council and the applicant asserting that the scheme is necessary for highway safety. The proposed services, reminiscent of Tebay on the M6, would occupy 39 acres of green belt land between J7 and J8 of the M56, featuring a new motorway service building with a farm shop, a 100-bed hotel, a filling station, and 96 EV charging spaces.
Despite receiving approval from Cheshire East Council in October 2023, the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who will consider the recommendations of planning inspector David Rose. If given the green light, the new Tatton Services could be up and running by late 2026 or early 2027.
Critics argue that the scheme would generate more traffic and negatively impact nearby town centres like Altrincham and Knutsford, claiming there's no need for it. Trafford Council, initially opposed to the proposal, withdrew its objection just days before the inquiry began last Tuesday (October 15).
In their closing submissions, both Cheshire East Council and the applicant, Tatton Services, conceded that the development was inappropriate for the green belt but insisted there were exceptional circumstances warranting its approval.
Stephen Whale, who is representing Cheshire East Council, emphasised the suitability of the MSA (motorway service area) location during recent discussions. He remarked: "The site is physically contained by the strategic road network, and that network creates a great deal of enclosure of the site.", reports .
He pointed out the distinct nature of the spot, saying, "It is essentially an island site and very much an isolated parcel. The application site is a very good location for an MSA (motorway service area), and it feels like a ready-made site."
Whale highlighted the necessity for such a development, stating: "There is, given the gaps in MSA provision, a clear need for an MSA in the location of the application site..."
"Trafford Council no longer disputes that there is a need for the proposed development."
Addressing concerns regarding potential negative impacts on local economies, Whale argued: "On the contrary, there is ample evidence, including evidence associated with the Gloucester and Tebay MSAs, to the effect that local businesses, including those based in local centres... are likely to benefit economically from the proposed development."
Representing the applicant, Paul Tucker KC said: "The basis for this application, from day one, has been the applicant's now firmly endorsed understanding of, and conviction in, there being an essential need for a motorway service area to be located in this location so as to provide facilities for the safety and welfare of strategic road network users."
In support of this, Tucker cited worrying statistics from National Highways showing6.7 per cent of motorway collisions in 2021 resulted from fatigue.
Speaking on the potential effects on neighbouring towns, Mr Tucker expressed that the establishment of a 'top notch MSA, comparable to the high quality MSA provision at Tebay and Gloucester' – managed by the Westmorland family who are backing the Tatton proposal – would bolster the local economy. He stated that the Tatton proposal offered significant benefits including its wider socio-economic benefits and the developer's commitment to deliver high highly sustainable energy efficient buildings.
The inspector will now evaluate the evidence presented during the inquiry and make a recommendation to the Secretary of State.
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