Consultation launches on Marple Neighbourhood Plan

A formal public consultation has launched on the adoption of a proposed Neighbourhood Plan for the Stockport village of Marple.

The Neighbourhood Plan sets out planning policies that will guide future development in the Marple area through to 2038, and give local residents greater power to shape the future of the area. The latest iteration of the Neighbourhood Plan has been developed following engagement with residents, businesses and organisations in the area which began in 2016. A consultation on a Draft Plan for Marple took place in Winter 2021/22.

The Neighbourhood Plan for Marple sets out planning policies that aim to balance future development of housing and employment space in the village, while mitigating its impact on the areas heritage and natural assets and preserving independent Marple’s character and ‘small town’ feel. Included in the plan are the following policies and aspirations for the village’s future:

• Town Centre – Enhancing character and appearance, support for a new food store.
• Getting Around – Encouraging walking and cycling and development in areas with good public transport access.
• Housing – Supporting housing that is affordable and serves a range of needs.
• Natural Capital and Climate Change – Safeguarding open spaces and supporting the efficient and clean use of energy.
• Community Space – Ensuring opportunities for enhancing wellbeing and staying active are protected such as sports facilities, indoor community facilities and canal towpaths.
• Heritage and Tourism – Protecting the character and appearance of local heritage assets and facilities that encourage visits.
• Business and Employment – Protecting existing employment land and encouraging the growth of new business.

This latest version of the Plan, will subject to the outcomes of this consultation round, undergo an independent Examination before being put to a referendum for Marple residents before it can be adopted.

The current consultation, taking place until 26th March 2023, invites Marple residents to share their views on proposals, and the extent to which they agree or disagree with ideas set out in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Responses to the consultation may be made via Stockport Council’s online portal, where the full plan is available to view. The plan is also available to view on deposit at the following locations during staffed hours:

• Civic Complex, Piccadilly, Stockport, SK1 3XE (Mon – Thu 8.30am to 5pm, Fri 8.30am to 4.30pm)
• One Stockport Hub, 16-22 Merseyway, Stockport, SK1 1RA (Mon – Fri  9am – 5.30pm, Sat 9am – 4pm)
• Marple Library, Memorial Park, Marple, Stockport, SK6 6BA
• High Lane Library, Buxton Road, High Lane, Stockport, SK6 8DX