The need to build significant housing stock and utilise the green belt is based on WBC?s strategy for the New City, which is flawed. The calculation of the need for 816 dpa is questionable and is likely to be too high and will lead to the unnecessary destruction of the green belt. WBC?s own numbers show that the 816 dpa target can be met by not developing the green belt especially with the use of the Fiddlers Ferry site and accounting for the green belt developments already approved by the Council. When aligned and put into the context of the surrounding Councils and regional Plans, Warrington?s housing target is clearly too high. WBC?s coordination of planning strategy has been poor, with no evidence of an aligned strategy to deliver the Government?s housing target.

Public consultation on the Local Plan has been poor and has not intended to solicit meaningful dialogue with residents and has not demonstrated support from the community. It is uncertain if the infrastructure and additional community services will actually be provided to support the proposed developments. The need for developing the green belt has not been adequately demonstrated. Therefore, the strategy should be to hold all green belt developments until such time as there is a clear need.