Major consultation underway on plans for 1,700 homes at Leighton North

Residents, businesses and community groups are being invited to help shape plans for a new neighbourhood at Leighton North, Crewe.

The emerging proposals could provide up to 1,700 homes, including affordable homes and potential accommodation for older people.

With Leighton Hospital, Bentley Motors and other major employers nearby, the neighbourhood aims to make it easier for people working locally, including hospital key workers, to live closer to their jobs.

Leaflets have gone out to local people outlining the scheme which includes green corridors linking public open spaces, play areas, allotments and playing pitches, giving residents places to meet, exercise and spend time outdoors.

Promoters Hallam Land say the plans also provide space for a primary school, a local centre and retail space.

New walking and cycling routes would connect Leighton North with surrounding communities, including a potential link towards Leighton Hospital.

The proposals also seek to retain and enhance existing trees, hedgerows and ponds where possible, create new wildlife habitats and use sustainable drainage as part of the landscape.

Hallam Land believes Leighton North could also contribute to Cheshire East Council’s Greater Crewe ambitions by providing homes close to major employers and supporting the investment in Leighton Hospital.

They say it aligns with local authority aims for Crewe to become ‘Best Small City’ in Europe by 2050.

Adam Masters, Senior Land and Planning Manager at Hallam Land, said: “Leighton North is well placed to provide homes for people who work at Leighton Hospital, Bentley Motors and other employers in and around Crewe.

“For key workers at the hospital in particular, the chance to live closer to work could make a real difference.

“Our ambition goes beyond building homes. We want to create a neighbourhood where people can enjoy green space, reach local facilities and make more journeys on foot or by bike.

“We encourage residents to look at the emerging plans and tell us what would make Leighton North work best for them and the wider community.”

The proposals and a feedback form are available at https://leightonnorthpublicconsultation.co.uk/.

People can also send comments or questions to consultation@njlconsulting.co.uk.

The consultation runs to October 30.