PLANS to build seven detached houses in the open countryside at Twemlow Green are being opposed by some neighbours.

BCR1 Ltd wants to build the homes on land to the north of Twemlow Manor Fields.

The company has applied for ‘permission in principle’ (PIP)– a relatively new two-stage mechanism for obtaining planning approval for housing development.

The first stage, which is being applied for now, is to establish whether the site is suitable in principle.

The second stage is intended to deal with more detailed matters such as layout, design and drainage.

A design and access statement submitted by planning agent The Cave, on behalf of the applicant, states: “The units are detached, and we propose to provide family accommodation across two storeys with an integral garage for secure parking and accommodation in the roof space over the garage.”

It adds: “The site is not within the greenbelt nor within a conservation area, there are no local heritage assets or ancient monuments.

"The land is designated as open countryside.

“It is considered that the benefits offered by this development outweigh the negative impacts.

"The loss of open countryside is considered to be of limited impact by virtue of the site's position between developed plots on all boundaries.”

At the time of writing, five neighbouring residents have written to Cheshire East Council to object to the proposal and one has written in support.

One objector said: “We are a small community, most have small children who use that area to safely play and promote wellbeing.

“There is limited access for the children as all surrounding areas lack footpaths so cannot be safely accessed on foot.

“The physical wellbeing of children depends on the environment and to build on that small piece of land will affect the residents currently residing in Twemlow Manor Fields.”

Another said the scheme would lead to an increase of traffic and a reduction in car parking and privacy.

One who supported the scheme said: “As long as these houses improve the overall area of where I live I can’t really object.”

The application, number 24/2652C, can be viewed on the planning portal on Cheshire East Council’s website.

The last date for submitting comments is August 28 and the application is due to be determined by planning officers under delegated authority.