MORE than 150 new homes have been given the go ahead as part of a major housing development in Shavington.

Cheshire East's Strategic Planning Board voted unanimously (on Wednesday) to permit phase two of the scheme within the boundaries of Dig Lane and Stock Lane, despite concerns that the first phase of the scheme had caused flooding problems across the area.

Of the 152 homes that will be built, 47 are being reserved as affordable housing and developer, Persimmon Homes, has agreed to set up a residents' liaison committee, while also increasing planting in a buffer zone between the new houses and existing properties.

Wybunbury councillor Janet Clowes highlighted the flood water issues when she told the committee: "We remain unconvinced that the plans can cope with water levels.

"Gardens on Dig Lane have been flooded for long periods over the past four years since phase one was significantly completed. A drainage pipe has flooded and United Utilities has attended several times a year.

"The current site is waterlogged."

Persimmon's agent, Adele Jacques, told councillors that the scheme has been designed with a network of flood attenuation and pipes to manage water across the site and slowly release water into Cheer Brook.

She said the plans had been approved by the Cheshire East Council's flood risk team, the Environment Agency and United Utilities.

"We have also provided further measures in the buffer [zone] to provide a belt and braces design," said the agent.

Persimmon Homes is willing to set up the residents' liaison group so residents' issues can be quickly resolved.

Councillors also raised concerns amenities promised in phase one of the development had not been delivered to the estate's new residents.

Cllr Clowes added: "We've spoken to residents that are unhappy the facilities do not exist."

Persimmon has pledged to provide a play area, trim tail, allotments and other green space.

But Ms Jacques said the developer had not previously owned all of the land required to carry out the work, but it now had ownership.

Work on the homes is expected to start within the next two months and "significantly progressed" within 18 months.