The Werneth Area Committee met on Monday 19 October 2026. Key discussions included neighbourhood policing updates, a Tree Preservation Order for Oxford Drive, and ward flexibility funding applications. The committee considered funding applications for the North West Steel Band Association and Inspire Capital Sports CIC, and agreed to proceed with a Traffic Regulation Order on Poleacre Lane and Briley Gardens.

Community Engagement

The committee received updates on various community events and initiatives. Councillor Angie Clark announced that Chad Kirk would be celebrating its 50th anniversary on Sunday with extra cake. Councillor Rachel Bresnahan thanked volunteers for a community day held two weeks prior. Councillor Rosemary Barratt highlighted the presentation of a community award to Colin Dunning for his 40 years of recycling efforts.

Inspector Jacqui Prest provided an update on neighbourhood policing, detailing crime statistics for the Bredbury and Woodley, and Romilly areas. She reported a reduction in shoplifting in Woodley and an increase in reporting, thanking residents and partners for their cooperation. Inspector Prest also mentioned successful enforcement actions, including a closure order on premises used as a brothel in Woodley. She highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle shoplifting, with several arrests made. The Inspector also noted that police vehicles had been observed contravening one-way systems on Central Drive, and stated she would investigate this. A reminder was given about the upcoming Police and Communities Together (PACT) meeting on Wednesday, 21 October.

During public question time, residents raised concerns about the Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for trees at 67-79 Oxford Drive, Woodley. Mrs. Tracy Stonehouse and Mrs. Vivian Atkinson disputed the description of the trees as small and mature, providing evidence of their significant size and the presence of wildlife, including bats. They urged the committee to confirm the TPO to safeguard the habitat. Mrs. Jenny Gordon and other residents from the University Estate raised concerns about communication regarding the local plan consultation, particularly the allocation of High Lane Farm for development. They questioned how residents would be notified of potential land sales or developer interest. Councillor Joe Barratt, Chair of the Werneth Area Committee, explained that the local plan allocation was a response to government housing targets and that no planning application had yet been submitted for High Lane Farm. He assured residents that councillors were actively seeking information on access and mitigation measures and would ensure residents are notified if a planning application is submitted. The committee also discussed the differences between railway bridges on Smithy Green and High Lane in relation to potential traffic access for developments.

Ward Flexibility Funding

The committee considered two applications for Ward Flexibility Funding. The North West Steel Band Association was granted £95.20 to help fund their annual concert on St. Peter's Square, Stockport. The concert, scheduled for June 2027, will be free to attend and feature various steel bands. Inspire Capital Sports CIC received £83.34 to support up to four young people with sporting potential who face financial barriers to participation. This funding will contribute towards training fees, equipment, and competition entry costs.

Tree Preservation Order Oxford Drive, Woodley

The committee considered an objection from the landowner regarding the Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for trees to the rear of 67-79 Oxford Drive, Woodley. Peter Pollard, who assessed the trees, confirmed that two groups of trees were worthy of protection based on their amenity value, lifespan, and visibility to the public. He explained that a TPO requires consent for any work on the trees but would be overruled by a successful planning application. Despite the landowner's objection that the TPO might hinder future development, the committee agreed to confirm the TPO, agreeing with Mr. Pollard's assessment of the trees' value.

Traffic Regulation Order on Poleacre Lane and Briley Gardens

The committee considered objections to a proposed No Waiting At Any Time Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) on Poleacre Lane and Briley Gardens in Woodley. The objections related to concerns that parking restrictions would displace vehicles to narrower sections of the road and impede driveway access. While alternatives were explored, the committee agreed to proceed with the order as originally advertised, with the addition of a white H-bar to signify no parking in front of the resident's driveway. The TRO aims to improve safety and visibility at the junction.

Remembrance Day Services

The committee nominated councillors to lay wreaths at Remembrance Day services. Councillor Joe Barratt proposed himself to lay a wreath at the Bredbury War Memorial and recommended Councillor Rachel Bresnahan for the Romley War Memorial.

Progress on Area Committee Decisions

The committee noted a report detailing the progress on previous decisions and the current position of area flexibility funding and the highway and traffic management delegated budget.