An important decision regarding the proposed Tatton Services on the M56 is pending.
- The plan, aimed at improving highway safety, has received initial approval but awaits a final verdict.
- Cheshire East Council and the applicant argue the service area fulfills a major transportation need.
- Criticism arises from anticipated negative impacts on local towns, sparking debate.
- The Secretary of State will make the ultimate decision following the planning inspector’s review.
The conclusion of the planning inquiry for the proposed Tatton Services reveals a significant step forward in enhancing highway safety along the M56. The development plan, which mirrors the highly acclaimed Tebay Services on the M6, encompasses 39 acres of green belt land between Junction 7 and Junction 8. It includes a new motorway service building, a farm shop, a 100-bed hotel, a filling station, and 96 electric vehicle charging points, indicating a focus on sustainable energy solutions. Initial approval was granted by Cheshire East Council in October 2023, yet the final decision resides with the Secretary of State, who will deliberate on the planning inspector’s recommendations.
Proponents of the scheme, including Cheshire East Council and Tatton Services Limited, emphasize the necessity of the development due to existing gaps in motorway service area (MSA) coverage. Cheshire East Council’s representative, Stephen Whale, highlighted the strategic location, describing it as an ‘island site’ that is optimally situated for an MSA. Whale further noted, ‘The site is physically contained by the strategic road network, which creates a unique enclosure.’ This location is deemed critical, as evidenced by data indicating that 6.7% of motorway collisions in 2021 were fatigue-related, underscoring the urgent need for additional services.
On the other hand, the proposal has faced substantial criticism. Concerns focus on the potential increase in traffic congestion and adverse effects on nearby town centres, including Altrincham and Knutsford. Initially, Trafford Council opposed the development; however, it retracted its objections just before the inquiry’s initiation on 15 October. Despite acknowledging the project’s inappropriateness for green belt land, both parties cite ‘exceptional circumstances’ to justify the proposed scheme. Addressing economic implications, Whale countered claims of negative impact, suggesting that similar developments, such as those at Gloucester and Tebay, have historically yielded economic benefits to local businesses.
Representing the applicants, Paul Tucker KC, asserted the essential need for this service area, reinforcing the commitment to provide ‘top notch’ facilities for the safety and welfare of road users. Such provisions are expected to generate socio-economic advantages and support highly sustainable building practices. Mr. Tucker posited that the project would not only fulfil essential service gaps but also bolster the local economy similar to proven models elsewhere.
The planning inspector, David Rose, is tasked with assessing the conflicting claims and evaluating whether the benefits of the project sufficiently outweigh the drawbacks of developing on green belt land. His recommendation will be pivotal in the Secretary of State’s forthcoming decision.
The decision on the Tatton Services proposal will significantly influence local transport infrastructure and community dynamics.
