Detailed Plans Unveiled for 17 Homes on Former Marsh Nurseries Site in Neston
Fresh details have emerged regarding proposals to transform a former landmark plant nurseries in Cheshire into a residential housing development. A reserved matters application has been formally submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council, seeking approval to construct 17 properties on the site of the former Marsh Nurseries, located off Boathouse Lane in Neston.
Site History and Current Use
According to the application filed by Heritage Court Developments, the nursery business ceased operations in early 2019. However, surrounding land owned by the applicant continues to be utilized for various purposes, including tented wedding receptions, community festivals, temporary car parking, and operation as a licensed caravan site. The site itself contains several unused structures, such as greenhouses, which are slated for redevelopment.
Development Specifications
The proposal outlines the erection of 17 homes, featuring a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom properties. Notably, five of these units are designated as affordable housing, addressing local housing needs. All homes are designed with a minimum of two allocated parking spaces, with several larger units benefiting from three spaces to accommodate residents and visitors.
Architectural Design and Integration
A design and access statement submitted in support of the scheme highlights the architectural approach, which incorporates Cheshire brick, black timber cladding, and a mix of slate and clay tile roofs. This design reflects local vernacular traditions and aims to ensure visual integration with the wider landscape context. The statement emphasizes that the scale and density are modest and appropriate for an edge-of-settlement location, avoiding suburban sprawl and instead presenting as a cohesive rural cluster.
Planning Context and Previous Decisions
The site is situated within the protected Green Belt, where planning regulations are stringent to safeguard the countryside against urban expansion. An outline planning application was initially rejected in 2021 but was subsequently allowed following an appeal to an independent planning inspector in 2023. The current reserved matters application essentially elaborates on that approved outline scheme, providing detailed specifications and design elements.
Accessibility and Compliance
The development is designed to provide safe, convenient, and dignified access for all residents and visitors, with the statement asserting robust compliance in access terms. No decision date has been set yet by the council. The plans are available for public viewing on the Cheshire West and Chester planning portal under reference number 19/03423/OUT.
