MASTERPLAN’s have been submitted prior to a decision on Middlewich marina.

The long-awaited decision on the marina application moved a step closer with masterplan proposals and accompanying statement being submitted by the applicant.

The supporting statement said the masterplan is likely to include the delivery of up to 200 homes, leisure and community facilities, green infrastructure, and improvement of cycle links.

It also states that the masterplan drawing reflects the Cheshire East Local Plan Strategy.

The provision of land for a new railway station is included in the masterplan.

Cllr Jonathan Parry, Middlewich Town Council, said: “I would say we’re close to a final decision on this.

“Cheshire East Council won’t want to put it back any further but you just never know when it comes to planning.

“I certainly see no benefit for the application whatsoever so will make my voice heard on the matter.

“It’s going to bring more traffic, affect existing businesses and have poor access, and it’s not the type of marina that the town has been asking for.”

The full application includes a 12-berth marina, 450sq m of retail space, 410sq m of office space and 27sq m of restaurant space.

First submitted to Cheshire East Council in September 2016, the application was withdrawn from discussion with the southern planning committee.

Among the consultees for the application are Middlewich’s three Cheshire East Council ward members, Cllrs Bernice Walmsley, Simon McGrory and Mike Parsons.

The application was recommended to be rejected at a recent meeting of Middlewich Town Council.

Strategic planning will now take the case for the application with the next meeting expected to be held on June 28.

You can view the masterplans by visiting planning.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ with reference 16/3209C.