Emery Planning has secured approval for the creation of 31 homes in Hatton. The nearly four-acre site is currently used as a livery business and holds stables, paddocks and other storage facilities. It is located within the Green Belt. Plans were submitted to demolish the existing buildings and construct a mixture of detached, semi-detached and terraced homes. The BN Associates-designed project also included affordable housing and a landscaped community space with both pathways and an orchard. Warrington Borough Council had initially refused the scheme because of its location, which the council argued would make residents reliant on a car. However, Emery Planning argued in its appeal that there was a sheltered bus stop within 300 metres of the entrance to the site that offered regular services to both Warrington and Stretton. A footpath on the site would also connect residents to a local pub. Stretton and Daresbury, Emery argued, are also within 2km walking and cycling distance from the development. It was an argument that won over the planning inspector. “I acknowledge that the environment surrounding the appeal site does not provide a high level of access to local services and facilities by all other means of transport,” the planning inspector said in their decision on the appeal. “However, there are a good number of services within 2km of the site and walking, cycling and public transport are all available to varying degrees. “These alternatives, alone or in combination, alongside the proposed infrastructure for electric vehicles and implementation of a travel plan, mean there would be sustainable forms of transport for future residents to avail of, which would reduce reliance on petrol and diesel cars.” The appeal was strengthened by Warrington Council not being able to show a five-year housing land supply. Emery Planning director Alison Freeman was the lead on the planning appeal for the scheme. “This is a considered development, providing a good mix of high-quality homes in a desirable and convenient location,” she said. “The scheme, which will deliver the first affordable homes and public open space in the village, deserved approval and we are delighted to have secured it for our client.” Barnes Walker Landscape, SCP Transport and KSA Heritage supported the appeal.