No formal planning application has been submitted to CW&C as yet. The Parish Council had invited all residents of the Village (via a 'flyer' delivered to all properties) to discuss the proposals and to hear the views and opinions of residents so that the Parish Council can respond accordingly when an application is received.

Meeting Notes
To assist residents in the understanding of the planning process the Chairman gave brief descriptions of;

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), is the definitive document to all planning in England. Covers building in the Green Belt which includes all Acton Bridge.
Local Plans and Policies - as prepared and applied by CW&C

Planning Procedures and Applications - All applications are made to CW&C who are responsible for and make the decisions. The Parish Council are consulted and send their views to CW&C. When necessary, applications can be 'called in' by an appropriate CW&C Councillor for decision by the full Planning Committee not just the delegated officer. If an applicant is not satisfied with a planning decision it can be appealed to the Planning Inspectorate at Bristol.

The Station Road location - Outline of the site and the previous applications for development / use of the Site.

The meeting was opened for views and debate. The following items and topics were raised;

• Who owns the land?
• What is the designation of the land, green belt or brownfield?
• Some green belt land in Norley has been built on.
• CW&C Local Plan states Acton Bridge is not justified for building.
• Speeding and safety on Station Road.
• Large number of cars would be added to the roads.
• Community shop not a viable operation, would have to be run by volunteers.
• Poor questions have been posed in leaflet.
• Increase in properties would give 10% increase of properties in the Village.
• Proposals for 10 affordable houses in Strawberry Lane has been thoroughly examined and has failed to make a case.
• It was believed many of the proposed properties would be bought by companies (landlords) for sub-letting.
• The land on Station Road is subject to flooding. Gardens don't drain
• If not built on can the owner be forced to keep the site tidy.
• Low cost / social housing has been tried in Little Leigh and many have not been sold.
• Builder / developer will get permission for one arrangement and then change plans.
• Is there a minimum gap for buildings near the railway.
• Plans submitted by British Rail (circa 1987) for development were refused and further refused on appeal.
• CW&C have the required reserve of land for the 5 year plan.
• If one green belt site developed others will follow.

In conclusion, the meeting was asked for a show of hands to indicate for or against the proposed scheme. There was one in favour and the remainder were all against the proposed development.