Council applies for planning permission for recycling base

Cheshire East Council has applied for consent to demolish part of the former Ideal Standard factory site on Cledford Lane, Middlewich – the first stage in a plan to build a a recycling base on the site.

The former production site is derelict, and the Council claim the demolition will remove a dangerous building.

The council, which recently acquired the site, will retain some structures, including the offices and the building which runs alongside the canal. This means that views into the site from surrounding roads will be largely unchanged.

A separate application will be made for full planning permission to build a new depot for Ansa, Cheshire East’s operating company for recycling and streetscape services.

Partial demolition will make the site tidier and allow the completion of surveys and other preliminary work to design the new depot.

Cllr David Topping, Cheshire East’s cabinet member for service commissioning, said: “We plan to replace a large, untidy site with a smart-looking, new facility. To dispel some rumours: the site will be for non-commercial waste only; we have no intention of using it to produce energy from waste; and all our household waste sites will remain open.”

Cheshire East Council leader, Cllr Michael Jones said: “Middlewich is a key town in Cheshire East and I am determined to meet the aspirations of the local members and the town council. I foresee a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the town with new investment and jobs being created, all carried out in a way which protects the heritage and well-being of residents.

“We are working closely with the planning officers and interested local parties, including the town council and ward members, to ensure everyone is informed at every stage of the process.”

The site on Cledford Lane was acquired by Cheshire East in December 2014 for £2.14m, substantially less than the £6m paid by the previous owner.

Cllr Jones added: The Council’s Cabinet approved the decision to purchase the site before planning consent had been secured, having been advised that the site could be sold on if permission to redevelop the site were not secured. This would have the double benefit of removing an eyesore from a key gateway to Middlewich while providing a financial gain for Cheshire East residents.”