Blacon residents have given overwhelming support to plans setting out a vision for the area's future, including the proposed development of a new sports and community hub.

In referendums held on Thursday 20 August, more than nine in 10 residents who cast a valid vote backed both the Blacon Neighbourhood Plan and Neighbourhood Development Order (NDO).

A total of 1,148 residents voted in favour of the Neighbourhood Plan, compared with 110 against, giving it 91.3% support. Turnout was 13.97%.

The NDO received 1,160 Yes votes and 114 No votes, with 91.1% of valid votes in favour. Turnout was 14.08%.

Both results mark a significant milestone for Blacon Neighbourhood Alliance, which has been working since 2023 to develop the proposals and establish a community-led vision for the area.

The Alliance was initially led by Brian McManus, who died before he could see the completion of the work.

Cheshire Community Action has supported the project, providing advice and practical assistance throughout the process.

Developing the Neighbourhood Plan and NDO involved community engagement, consultation, preparation of technical planning documents and independent examination before both proposals went to referendum.

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A key element of the NDO is the proposed indoor sports and community hub at Cairns Crescent. The project aims to provide new facilities for local residents and community organisations.

The result comes as Blacon benefits from the Government's Pride in Place Programme, with work also underway on a long-term regeneration plan for the area.

Blacon Neighbourhood Alliance says the result provides an opportunity to bring together the community's vision, the new planning framework and future investment to explore how the proposed hub can be delivered.

Attention will now turn to building on the referendum result and progressing the proposals set out in the Neighbourhood Plan and NDO.