A new sports and community hub in Blacon has moved a step closer after Cheshire West and Chester Council officially approved the area's Neighbourhood Plan.

The plan, backed by 91% of voters in a referendum on 20 August, includes a Neighbourhood Development Order granting outline planning permission for a sports and community hub of up to 3,120 sq m on land off Cairns Crescent.

The vote means the council must now use the Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order when considering planning applications in Blacon.

Neighbourhood plans are prepared by local communities and give residents a greater say over future development in their area. A Neighbourhood Development Order is a way of granting planning permission for a specific type of development within a defined area.

The approval brings the total number of 'made' neighbourhood plans in Cheshire West and Chester to 30.

Councillor Christine Warner, Cabinet Member for Homes and Planning, said she was "delighted" both the Blacon Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order have been completed.

She said: "Together, they represent a significant achievement for the local community and will help deliver an important new community facility that will enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of residents for years to come."

She added that, with the plan and order now in place, both will play a "key role in shaping future development" within Blacon.

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Cllr Warner said: "All development proposals will need to take full account of the policies that have been prepared, supported and voted for by the local community, ensuring that future growth reflects residents' aspirations and priorities.

"The Neighbourhood Development Order grants outline planning permission for a new sports and community building, which has the potential to become a valuable new facility for local residents once constructed".

The plan includes a detailed vision and objectives for Blacon, along with four policies covering the sports and community hub, community facilities, the Western Avenue local retail centre and the designation of Local Green Spaces.