Plans to open a Tebay style services on the M56 have been delayed after the decision has been called in by the Secretary of State for the Environment
Cheshire East Council’s Strategic Planning Board voted 7 votes to 3 in favour of a new motorway service area at Junctions 7 and 8 of the M56 to be known as Tatton Services.
Tatton Services offerings included a fuel refilling station, a farm shop and kitchen (amenity building), a 100-bed hotel, all with energy efficiency and generation technologies, as well as 96 EV charging spaces, further enhancing the services available to travellers.
The project would generate 325 new jobs, with a commitment to local employment, training and working with local businesses to source produce for sale on site.
However there was local opposition to the plans and now the Inspectorate will assess the project at an inquiry beginning on 15 October.
In a statement Tatton Estate said
“we received communication from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities which notified us of the Secretary of State’s decision to call in this application. Under his powers in section 77 of the 1990 Act, that the application shall now be referred to him instead of being dealt with by the Local Planning Authority.
Tatton Services is an amazing project and first and foremost we would like to thank everyone who has supported this exciting project and the resulting jobs for Cheshire so far, especially Cheshire East Council.
Whilst we are obviously disappointed by the inevitable delay from central government, taking away the decision from the locally elected leaders who had already approved it, we remain steadfastly committed to the project. We will continue to make the case to decision makers so people can benefit from the local jobs, sustainable growth and vital road safety improvements this project will secure.
Delivering the unique Westmorland Family model, Tatton Services is a truly sustainable solution to a very large gap on the M56 and M62 motorways around Manchester in both directions. It also creates apprenticeship roles and champions local foods and products. We continue to work with many others to raise awareness of the huge benefits this project will bring to our community.“
