TWO major housing schemes could see 1,250 homes built around the edges of Crewe.

They are part of a £36.5 million investment by Cheshire East Council in a new highways network to the north west of the town.

Planning chiefs have recommended councillors at Cheshire East Council's strategic planning committee tomorrow (Wednesday) give outline approval for the schemes, which have been included in the North West Crewe Package – a housing and employment blueprint.

A 400-home scheme put forward by the council's Engine of the North developers will see 47.7 acres of farm land developed on three parcels of land, lying to the east and north of a planned new road and west of Minshull New Road and north of Leighton Brook.

And an 850-home plan, proposed by Bloor Homes and Galliford Try Partnerships, will see 117 acres developed in two parcels that wrap around Leighton Hospital and include a local retail centre and space for a primary school.

The land around Leighton – which has been allocated for housing in the Cheshire East Local Plan - is proving to be a magnet for housing development. Several other schemes in the area have already gained permission including Fairfield's 400-home project off Flowers Lane.

Crewe Town Council has objected to the first scheme as it only proposes 10 per cent affordable housing compared to a target 30 per cent.

The planning report does state the developer will seek to achieve 20 per cent affordable housing if it can.

Planners state in the document: "Both applications are closely linked to the North West Crewe Package - a series of highway works already approved, which provide access to this site.

"The proposals are considered to be acceptable in terms of highways, landscape, public rights of way, public open space and environmental considerations subject to agreed mitigation works."

Both housing schemes are being recommended for outline planning permission at tomorrow's strategic planning board meeting, subject to agreements.