The planning inquiry into the proposed ‘top notch’ Tatton Services ended yesterday (Tuesday) with Cheshire East Council and the applicant arguing the scheme is needed on highway safety grounds. The Tebay-style services proposed for 39 acres of green belt land between J7 and J8 of the M56, includes a new motorway service building with farm shop, a 100-bed hotel, filling station, and 96 EV charging spaces. The scheme was approved by Cheshire East Council in October 2023.
But the Secretary of State has the final say and will make a decision based on the recommendations of planning inspector David Rose, who presided over this inquiry. If final approval is granted, the new Tatton Services is expected to be operational by the end of 2026 or early 2027. Objectors to the scheme argued it would become a destination in its own right and generate more traffic.
They said it would have a detrimental impact on nearby town centres, such as Altrincham and Knutsford, and there was no need for it. Trafford Council, which had originally opposed the proposal, withdrew its objection days before the inquiry began last Tuesday (October 15). Today, Cheshire East Council and the applicant, Tatton Services, presented their closing submissions.
Both acknowledged it was inappropriate development in the green belt but argued there were very special circumstances why it should be permitted. Stephen Whale, representing Cheshire East Council, said: “The site is physically contained by the strategic ro.
