Paltry response to council plan (From Crewe Guardian)

Paltry response to council plan

7:10am Saturday 22nd September 2012 in News By Matthew Taylor

A ‘WOEFUL’ 145 residents of a possible 243,000 have taken part in a consultation about the future of housing, schools and healthcare in Cheshire East.

Cheshire East Council is urging people to get involved with the Local Plan before the opportunity to provide comment closes on October 1.

The Local Plan will outline future provision of housing, jobs, roads, schools, access to local health services - such as hospitals and GP surgeries - leisure facilities, parks, green spaces and roads.

Council Leader, clr Michael Jones, said: “This is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity for this generation to stand up and be counted and really make their mark.

“For all residents of Cheshire East, the Local Plan consultation is your time to decide what your neighbours, your neighbourhood, your roads, schools and countryside will look like over the next 20 years. You must tell us what you want.

Deputy leader, clr David Brown, added: “I am absolutely astonished. We are a traditional rural area and we have the chance to keep it like that, and to influence where developments can and can’t go.

“But the issue is being met with an almost stony silence. This is an opportunity of a lifetime - grab it with both hands.

“145 responses at this stage is woeful and I’m just hoping that it’s because people are too busy.

“I can guarantee that if you do make the time to fill out a consultation form, it will be one of the best investments you’ll make for you and your family’s future.”

To take part, visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/localplan Consultation documents are also available at libraries in Crewe, Nantwich, Macclesfield, Knutsford, Poynton and Handforth.