During the hearing about the Tatton Services plan, Trafford Green Party activist Brigit Green raised concerns about the proposal. She mentioned that the motorway stop would be located on the other side of the authority’s boundary with Cheshire East.
Green highlighted that although Tebay Services, also run by the Westmorland family behind the Tatton project, is exceptional, there are worries that people from Altrincham, Bowdon, Hale, and Knutsford might visit the services not necessarily for a break during their journey, but because of the quality of food and shops available.
The proposed services cover 39 acres of green belt land between J7 and J8 of the M56 and include a new motorway service building with a farm shop, a 100-bed hotel, a filling station, and 96 EV charging spaces.
Cheshire East council approved the plan in October 2023, but the final decision rests with the Secretary of State after a review by the planning inspector at the inquiry.
Initially, Trafford Council objected to the proposal but later withdrew its opposition after National Highways stated the need for a service station in that location.
Paul Tucker KC, representing Tatton Services, acknowledged that the development is considered ‘inappropriate development in the green belt’, but argued that the benefits of the scheme outweigh the potential harm to the green belt.
He emphasized that the site is not a tranquil agricultural area but serves as a gateway to Greater Manchester, Manchester Airport, and other parts of the North West.
Mr. Tucker also mentioned the need for the proposed facilities, the job creation potential, and the commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient buildings as additional benefits of the project.
Objector Bill Dixon from Stop Tatton Services presented three main reasons for refusing the scheme, including concerns about the link road and the location of the motorway service area.
Two local business owners, Dominic Fenton and Matt Townley, expressed support for the proposal, believing that local businesses like theirs could benefit from the development.
The planning inquiry is expected to conclude today, on October 22.