Adlington New Town: Everything You Need to Know About the Controversial £8bn Cheshire Proposal

Adlington New Town wanted to change 2,400 acres of greenbelt farmland in East Cheshire into a large self-contained community. Developer Belport proposed building up to 20,000 tech-enabled homes, schools, health centers, shops, offices, and setting aside 40% for green space.

Project Vision and Features

Initially backed by the UK’s New Towns Taskforce, the £8bn scheme promised affordable housing, with up to 40% dedicated to social rent and key worker units starting around £400K. It also included an upgraded rail station, cycling paths, and plans to reopen the Grade I-listed Adlington Hall for public use. Belport emphasized sustainable design near the affluent Alderley Edge, which is just 5 miles away, to address housing needs.

Local Backlash and Concerns

Residents criticized it as “absurd” and worried about a “massive housing estate” ruining the countryside, increasing traffic, and putting pressure on local schools and roads near the Peak District. Activists, such as CPRE Cheshire, condemned the loss of greenbelt and farmland and the reliance on cars. MP Tim Roca started a petition.

Council Stance and Timeline

Cheshire East Council unanimously opposed the plan in December 2025, pointing to pressure on infrastructure. Nearby councils had different opinions. Initial discussions began in 2025, and decisions are expected in 2026.

Latest Update: Proposal Scrapped

As of March 22, 2026, the government announced seven new towns. Adlington was dropped due to strong opposition, while sites like Manchester’s Victoria North were preferred.

FAQs

1. Is Adlington New Town still happening?  

No, it was removed from the government’s March 2026 new towns list because of strong local opposition.  

2. What was planned for affordable housing?  

Up to 40% of 14,000 to 20,000 homes, including shared ownership, social rent, and key worker units.  

3. Why the controversy?  

Loss of greenbelt farmland, traffic and infrastructure overload, and the change of rural Adlington into urban sprawl.

Summary:
Explore the £8bn Adlington New Town proposal in Cheshire: 20,000 homes on greenbelt land, 40% affordable housing, historic hall restoration but fierce local backlash over traffic, farmland loss. Council opposes; update as of March 2026: ditched by gov