A referendum will be held in Marple this month, on the subject of planning and development in the town. 

On 21 March, anybody on the electoral register with a Marple address will be able to vote for or against the introduction of the Marple Neighbourhood Plan. 

The Marple Neighbourhood Plan is a set of rules which will inform future planning decisions in the area - if approved, landowners, homeowners and developers will have to use the plan to shape their proposals before applying to the council for planning permission.

The plan itself has been devised by volunteer residents, based on consultation and feedback from other Marple locals. 

The stated aim of the plan is to "to ensure the future quality of life for all who live, work or play here". 

The plans will shape how future planning applications are made in the area (Image - Alexander Greensmith)

Some of the provisions of the plan include: 

• Housing provision: The plan will "aim to meet new housing demand in a way that is sympathetic to the area". This includes supporting "wider development aims of the borough", encouraging development on brownfield sites and around the town centre. 
• Controlling traffic: The plan will press for congestion problems to be addressed, for further development of Marple's two railway stations, and "balance the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
• Preserving and protecting "green infrastructure and designated wildlife areas": the plan will encourage applicants to track biodiversity gain/loss.
• Retaining and attracting "varied shops and restaurants and provide a pleasant environment": The plan will encourage new businesses and meet regularly with the Marple Business Committee.
• Permanent community facilities: encourage more indoor and outdoor community facilities for people to meet and host events

More details on the plan can be found HERE.

The plan includes provisions on housing, green space, traffic, and more (Image - Alexander Greensmith)

How to vote

Anybody on the electoral register, with an address in the referendum area, is eligible to vote. 

The exact wording of the referendum is:

"Do you want Stockport Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Marple to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?"

Residents can vote at their local polling station (check your poll card) from 7am-10pm on Thursday 21 March. 

There is also still time to register to vote by proxy. Find more information HERE.

Read the Marple Neighbourhood Plan in full HERE.

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