Planning items dominated the most recent meeting of Malpas Parish Council, with councillors opposing plans for housing in the village.

The plans, for land rear of Broselake Farm Greenway Lane Malpas, were for the substitution house types for plots 68, 69, 60, 71, 72, 73, 138, 139 and 86-102, and 140.

The parish council voted to oppose the planning application, stating that the increase will result in a higher massing and the loss of open space.

The parish council would want to ensure that this would not encroach on the buffer zone that was conditioned by the inspector as part of the original grant of planning.

It was also pointed out that this application would be subject to Cheshire West and Chester’s car parking strategy, meaning all four-bed houses are required to have adequate off-street parking for three vehicles.

Council clerk Ruth Shackleton said: "We note that this application includes four-bedded houses.

"[We] draw attention to the Neighbourhood Plan which stipulates that each character area consists of no more than 30 houses. Policy H4 and BE2 are particularly relevant to this application as they deal with the character and style of build.

"Malpas PC understands that drainage issues at the site remain unresolved and would request that no further approval be granted until this matter has been resolved.

"Malpas PC oppose this planning application."

In the public forum, Cheshire Police's Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Nick Bailey was addressed by a resident over 101, who gave an example of an incident that caused great concern and is reflective of the many concerns across the parish and wider rural areas.

ACC Bailey replied by saying he recognised the problems with the 101 system and reported that new arrangements including improved online reporting are being developed.

He re-iterated that residents are advised to make full use of the surgeries to be held by the local PCSO.

ACC Bailey was reminded of the willingness of Malpas and other parish councils to work in partnership.

The parish council also recorded its thanks and appreciation for all that Nigel and Joanne Owens for their work at the Londis.