The inquiry into the proposed Tatton Services on the M56 has concluded, marking a pivotal moment for the project.
- Tatton Services, approved by Cheshire East Council, faces scrutiny regarding its impact on green belt land and local communities.
- Key stakeholders emphasise the necessity of the services for road safety and the economic benefits.
- There are concerns about increased traffic and the potential negative effects on nearby town centres.
- With the Secretary of State to decide, the future of Tatton Services hangs in the balance.
The planning inquiry regarding the proposed Tatton Services, an initiative likened to the well-regarded Tebay services on the M6, has come to a close. This project involves the construction of a motorway service area occupying 39 acres of green belt land between Junctions 7 and 8 of the M56. Despite having received approval from Cheshire East Council, the final decision is now in the hands of the Secretary of State, informed by the recommendations of the planning inspector, David Rose.
The proposal envisions a multifaceted service area incorporating a service building, a farm shop, a 100-room hotel, a filling station, and facilities for 96 electric vehicle charging stations. Should the Secretary of State approve the plans, Tatton Services could become operational by late 2026 or early 2027. Proponents of the plan, including Cheshire East Council and Tatton Services,’ applicants, assert the development is critical for enhancing highway safety.
Nevertheless, the initiative has attracted critique from several quarters, including concerns about its appropriateness for green belt land and the potential surge in traffic. Critics, including some local town figures, warn of adverse effects on town centres such as Altrincham and Knutsford, contending there’s a lack of necessity for such services in the area. Despite these criticisms, Trafford Council, which initially lodged objections, withdrew them shortly before the inquiry commenced.
In defence of the project, Stephen Whale, representing Cheshire East Council, emphasised the geographical suitability of the site, highlighting its insulation by the road network which creates a natural enclosure. Whale argued that given the existing gaps in motorway service areas, there is an evident need warranting this particular development as an imperative for strategic road users.
Paul Tucker KC, representing the applicant, underscored the project’s alignment with essential transport needs, supported by National Highways data indicating a noteworthy 6.7 per cent of motorway collisions in 2021 were due to driver fatigue. Tucker advocated that the Tatton Services, backed by the developers known for high-quality services akin to those at Tebay and Gloucester, promises significant socio-economic advantages while prioritising sustainability and energy efficiency.
The Secretary of State’s forthcoming decision, based on the inquiry’s findings, will ultimately determine whether the Tatton Services project proceeds.
The future of Tatton Services now rests with the Secretary of State’s impending decision, following the inquiry’s closure.
