The Planning and Highways Regulation Committee of Stockport Council met on Thursday, 24 September 2026, to discuss several development applications and proposed reforms to planning committee procedures. The committee granted planning permission for a new six-storey mixed-use development on Tiviot Dale in Stockport town centre and for an outline planning application for up to 160 homes on land at Jackson's Lane in Hazel Grove. The committee also discussed proposed changes to planning committee reforms and the national scheme of delegation.

Land at Tiviot Dale, Stockport

The committee granted planning permission for the demolition of the existing building at Land at Tiviot Dale, Stockport, SK1 1TA, and the construction of a new six-storey building. This development will comprise commercial floor space on the ground floor and 29 residential apartments on the upper floors. The decision was made subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 agreement to secure a commuted sum for disabled parking, a late-stage viability review for affordable housing, education, and public open space provision, and a monitoring and management fee.

Councillor Asa Caton, speaking at the meeting, noted concerns about the lack of affordable housing and Section 106 contributions, stating, Another development coming through where a developer's unable to make contributions, although we do see that viability in this particular case would be challenging. However, he also acknowledged the exceptional design and supported the application. Councillor Karl Wardlaw echoed concerns about the lack of contributions but was minded to approve due to the good design. Councillor Nikki Crix expressed concern about the site being in a flood zone, despite assurances that measures had been taken to mitigate flood risk.

Land at Jackson's Lane, Hazel Grove

Outline planning permission was granted for the development of up to 160 dwellings on Land at Jackson's Lane, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 5JS. The proposal includes 50% affordable homes, public open space, landscaping, and associated infrastructure works. The decision is subject to conditions and a Section 106 Agreement covering biodiversity net gain monitoring, affordable housing, education contributions, formal sports provision, healthcare provision, active travel improvements, mitigation for population pressures on Happy Valley Local Nature Reserve, and monitoring of the Dean Lane/Chester Road/Jacksons Lane junction.

Councillor Liz Crix raised concerns about the implications of the developer being unable to comply with conditions and obligations, to which officers responded that any future non-compliance would require a formal application for a deed of variation. Concerns were also raised by Councillor Crix and others regarding the development's location within the Green Belt and potential impacts on wildlife and drainage. Councillor Shan Alexander stated, I've always had concerns about the principle of developing on greenbelt. I still have those concerns and protecting the greenbelt remains important in planning as well. However, she acknowledged that the application must be assessed against current policies. Councillor Asa Caton supported the application, citing the stark reality that we find ourselves in is that we're in the middle of a housing crisis.

Planning Committee Reforms and National Scheme of Delegation Implementation

The committee received a report detailing proposed changes to the council's planning decision-making arrangements, including the national scheme of delegation, gateway tests for referral to Planning Committee, the role of Area Committees, and arrangements for public speaking. These reforms are being introduced nationally from 31 October 2026.

Councillor Anna Charles-Jones suggested encouraging planning officers to maintain contact with local ward members to ensure local knowledge informs considerations. Councillor Asa Caton inquired about the opportunity for Area Committees to discuss applications, clarifying that public speaking would now take place at the main Planning and Highways Regulation Committee. Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick requested proactive communications to ward councillors regarding applications affecting their wards. Councillor Charles-Jones also raised a point about the Public Sector Equality Duty concerning accessibility for those who might find it more difficult to attend the main committee compared to Area Committees.

Planning Appeals, Enforcement Appeals and Enforcement Notices

The committee noted a report summarising recent appeal decisions, current appeals, and enforcement actions. An update was provided regarding Belmont House, where an enforcement appeal had been dismissed with variations.