NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
Search representations
Results for Eckington Parish Council search
New search
New search
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
The Parish Council comments on the Local Plan consultation relating to strategic sites at Eckington. While the Council is reluctant to support the larger strategic site allocations, it recognises the need to address housing shortages and the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
The Council states that any strategic site must be supported by substantial improvements to infrastructure and community services. These include additional healthcare provision, expanded schools and nurseries, housing and care facilities for an ageing population, improved road infrastructure supported by a comprehensive traffic analysis, enhanced drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field, and significant improvements to public transport. Further requirements include children’s play areas, improved pedestrian and cycle links, new footpaths, nature corridors to support biodiversity, investment in town centre regeneration, adequate parking provision, and suitable access for emergency vehicles.
Concerns are raised about the suitability of the location due to the loss of Green Belt and agricultural land, harm to rural character, limited employment opportunities, increased policing pressures, the potential coalescence with Sheffield, and increased traffic and pollution. Potential benefits are acknowledged, including support for local businesses, improved facilities, increased housing choice, and enhanced access to green spaces. However, the Council concludes that development should instead be directed towards existing town centres where infrastructure is better established. The Council also notes difficulties experienced by the public in accessing online consultation information.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
45119 – Land off Hague Lane, Renishaw
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include, use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
Strategic Site – Eckington South (45226)
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include, introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
45078 – Land North of Eckington
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
45021 – Land off Chesterfield Road, Eckington
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
45133 – Land off Bolehill Lane, Eckington
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
NEDDC Local Plan Issues and Options Consultation on the Strategic Approach to the Location of Development and Refined Sites (March 2026)
45900 – White Lane Farm, White Lane, Ridgeway, Sheffield
Respondent: Eckington Parish Council
Representation Summary:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Full text:
Good Afternoon,
Comments on Local Plan Consultation 12 March to 30 April 2026 – Eckington Strategic Sites
Opening Statement
The Parish Council are reluctant to support the larger strategic sites identified within the Local Plan. However, we recognise that there is a need to address the current housing shortage and understand the importance of delivering new homes in sustainable locations.
Infrastructure and Community Requirements
Any proposed strategic site should be supported by significant improvements to local infrastructure and services, including:
1. Increased provision of healthcare services (GP surgeries and dental practices).
2. Expansion of educational facilities (schools and nurseries).
3. Provision of a care home and a clear strategy to meet the housing needs of the elderly population.
4. Improved road infrastructure and connectivity. This must include:
• A comprehensive traffic analysis of the Town to understand current traffic volumes prior to any new housing development.
• Use of the Site 45119 Beighton Field route for access, rather than Hague Lane or Emmett Carr.
• Introduction of a link road through Site 45226, connecting Chesterfield Road to Staveley Lane. Appropriate traffic management at both ends of the link road (e.g. roundabouts or traffic lights).
5. New or enhanced children’s play areas.
6. Safe and accessible pedestrian and cycle routes linking to the Town Centre and Stead Street play park.
7. Improvements to drainage, particularly at Lansbury playing field.
8. Investment in Town Centre regeneration will be increasingly important with a growing population. All developments should actively support and strengthen the existing Town Centre.
9. Creation of a nature corridor to support biodiversity, including protection and enhancement of existing routes such as the route to Foxstone Dam.
10. Development of a footpath along the stream to the valley bottom.
11. Significant improvements to public transport, which is currently inadequate.
12. New developments must include adequate parking provision proportionate to the number of bedrooms, as current provision is insufficient. Given the rural nature of the area, residents will remain reliant on private vehicles for commuting. In addition, road layouts must ensure suitable access for emergency vehicles across the network.
Concerns About Site Suitability
There are serious concerns regarding whether this is an appropriate location for a strategic site:
1. Loss of Green Belt and valuable agricultural (farm) land.
2. Harm to the character of a rural area.
3. Limited access to employment opportunities and commuting challenges.
4. Increased pressure on policing and potential rise in crime.
5. Risk of joining with Sheffield if developments such as Ridgeway or Moss Valley proceed, undermining their role in preventing urban sprawl.
6. Increased traffic volumes and associated pollution, which could negatively impact air quality and residential amenity.
Potential Advantages
If development proceeds, some benefits may include:
1. Increased viability and vitality of the Town.
2. Greater use of local leisure facilities.
3. Increased demand supporting local businesses.
4. Improved local facilities and services.
5. Increased provision of housing, including a mix of developments suitable for both younger and older residents.
6. Improvements to footpath networks, providing better access to green spaces.
Potential Disadvantages
However, the drawbacks are significant:
1. Loss of valuable agricultural land.
2. Possible loss or disruption of existing footpaths, including access to Foxstone Dam.
3. Negative effects on nature and local biodiversity as a result of development.
Specific Site Comments
Site 45078:
The Council strongly opposes this development for the following reasons:
1. This site has previously been rejected for development due to nature conservation concerns.
2. There is no suitable access, and any increase in traffic would be unfeasible. It is considered that sufficient infrastructure could not be provided to support development at this location.
Sites 45021, 45133 and 45900:
The Council strongly opposes development on these sites for the following reasons:
1. Development would result in encroachment towards Sheffield, eroding the important separation between settlements.
2. These areas must remain as open green space and form part of the Moss Valley, which is highly valued by the community.
3. The sites provide important opportunities for walking, recreation, and access to nature, all of which would be significantly harmed by development.
Conclusion
While there are some potential benefits, the impacts on Green Belt, rural character, and infrastructure are substantial. Housing development should instead be prioritised within existing Town Centres, such as Chesterfield and/or Sheffield, where infrastructure and services are already better established.
Note
The Council welcomes the public consultation sessions held by NEDDC. However, it notes that many members of the public are experiencing difficulties navigating the online information provided, which may limit effective public engagement with the Local Plan.
For instructions on how to use the system and make comments, please see our
help guide.
