Topic Paper Is to Provide Background Information for the Cheshire West and Chester Core Strategy

Summary

The purpose of this topic paper is to provide background information for the Cheshire West and Chester Core Strategy. The topic paper relates to the Northwich and Rural North Area Partnership Board (APB) area. The APB areas have been used as a basis for the topic papers as monitoring information has been collected for these areas.

Northwich and the Rural North is located in the north east of Cheshire West and Chester. Northwich is the major town in the area. Settlements within the rural north include Frodsham, Helsby, Kingsley and Norley. Settlements in the urban area include Weaverham, Barnton, Davenham, Leftwich, Hartford and Rudheath which have strong connections with Northwich.

National regional and local context

The key reports, plans and policies relating to the Northwich and Rural North area are:

North West of England Plan Regional Spatial Strategy to 2021 (2008) Adopted Vale Royal Borough Local Plan First Review Alteration (2006) Vale Royal Supplementary Planning Documents: SPD1 Affordable Housing, SPD2 Managing Housing Land Supply, SPD3 Developer Contributions, SPD4 Landscape Character and Wind Turbine Sensitivity, SPD5 Landscape Character Vale Royal Draft Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (2008) Cheshire West and Chester Employment Land Study (in draft) Cheshire Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 Cheshire Replacement Minerals Local Plan (1999) Cheshire Replacement Waste Local Plan (2007) Northwich Vision Interim Planning Guidance (2004) Cheshire Town Centre Study (2006) Cheshire West and Chester Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (2008) Winsford Area Flood Risk Assessment (in draft) Northwich Area Flood Risk Assessment - February 2009

A number of Village Design Statement and Conservation Area Appraisals are also relevant to the area.

Context and Characteristics

Northwich is the major town in the area, providing shops and services for people in the town and surrounding settlements. The surrounding area, known as 'Rural North' is characterised by open countryside, farmland and small villages. The market town of Frodsham lies to the west of the area which has developed to become a distinctive and attractive market town, with a mixture of historic buildings and independent traders.

Delamere Forest is a popular tourist destination, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Other attractions to the area include the Salt Museum in Northwich, the Anderton Boat lift linking the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal, the Lion Salt works museum in Marston and the Marbury Country Park.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 1 Northwich and Rural North Northwich Vision

A regeneration framework has been developed named Northwich Vision which sets out a clear, ambitious yet achievable strategy for the renaissance of Northwich town centre. The strategy builds upon the analysis, research and community engagement which has been undertaken in recent years. The Northwich Vision identifies a series of exciting development projects throughout the town centre. Development potential will be released as a result of mine stabilisation works providing a unique opportunity to reposition Northwich as a key town within Cheshire and the North West.

Frodsham Forward

The Frodsham Forward Partnership was created in January 2003 as part of the national Market Towns Initiative. The community-led partnership was tasked with undertaking a "Health-check" to create a clear picture of the current situation (economically, socially and environmentally) in Frodsham, Helsby and the surrounding parishes. In addition to this, The Market Towns Initiative, part funded by the NWDA will develop and market Frodsham as part of a national drive to revitalise market towns as hubs for their local rural economies.

Key Facts and Figures

Northwich and Rural North had a population of 68,300 in 2007 which represents about 21% of the population of Cheshire West and Chester. Northwich had a population of 43,600 and Rural North had a population of 24,700. The population of Northwich and Rural North is expected to increase by about 5% between 2006 and 2016 according to the council's forecasts. Northwich and Rural North had lower proportions of 20-34 year olds and higher proportions of those aged over 35 than England and Wales. This trend was more pronounced in the Rural North.

The 2007 IMD update identified Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton L3 LSOA as the 10th most deprived in Cheshire West and Chester. 4 LSOAs in Northwich and Rural North were in the top 20% most multiply deprived LSOA's nationally.

The largest sector of housing in Northwich and Rural North were in Council Tax bands A to C (below the average band D) in 2007. The greatest proportion of houses in bands A to C was Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton (100%). The greatest proportion of houses in bands E to I was Hartford and Kingsmead (77%) (Department for Communities and Local Government, and Valuation Office Agency).

At April 2009, the unemployment rate in Northwich and Rural North was 3.6% which was the same as the rate in Cheshire West and Chester. Unemployment rates for Northwich were similar to those for England (NOMIS Official Labour Market Statistics).

In 2008, average household income in Northwich and Rural North APB was £36,700, which was 3% above that for Cheshire West and Chester, and 7% above the GB average. Lowest average household income was in Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton (£29,600) and highest was in Hartford and Kingsmead (£50,200) which was also the highest in Cheshire West and Chester (Source: CACI PayCheck 2008).

Overall, Northwich has an attractive and distinctive shopping environment, where comparison and convenience retail sectors are well represented in terms of unit numbers and total floorspace. Qualitatively, however, the comparison shopping offer in Northwich is poor catering for the lower end of the market. The quality and range of nightlife, entertainment and recreational facilities in Northwich also needs improvement (source: WYG 2006).

2 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North Frodsham is an important centre serving principally local shopping needs. The majority of retail floorspace in the centre is occupied by convenience traders. Frodsham is accessible by a range of means of transport and has a centrally located railway station.

Northwich and Rural North is well served by a network of major roads with strong links particularly to Manchester. The Mid-Cheshire Railway Line and the North Cheshire line serve the area. Local bus services in the Northwich area provide frequent links within Northwich and Chester as well as surrounding towns and villages. A number of National Cycle Network routes also pass through the Northwich and Rural North area.

Northwich and Winsford have been identified as towns that are at risk of flooding and also part of large scale regeneration programmes. Area Flood Risk Assessments have been undertaken to look at this issue.

Key Issues

The key issues for the Northwich and Rural North area are:

Addressing deprivation in urban areas Regeneration of Northwich through the Northwich Vision Addressing flood risk Delivering the Market Town Initiative within Frodsham Capacity of infrastructure in the area Improving access to services and employment Reducing car dependency Preserving the character of rural areas whilst still meeting the needs of local communities Providing for the housing needs in the area, including affordable housing

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 3 Northwich and Rural North 1 Introduction 5 2 National, regional and local context 7 3 Context and characteristics 9 4 Key issues 20 5 Definitions/glossary 22

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North 1 Introduction

1.1 The purpose of this topic paper is to provide background information for the Cheshire West and Chester Core Strategy. The topic paper relates to the Northwich and Rural North Area Partnership Board (APB) area. The APB areas have been used as a basis for the topic papers as monitoring information has been collected for these areas.

1.2 The Northwich and Rural North APB area is shown on the map below. The M56 boarders the area to the north and passes through the western extent of the area. Northwich is the major town in the area. Frodsham, a smaller market town lies in the north western part of the area with smaller settlements including Hartford to the south east, Weaverham to the south and Helsby in the west. The area has strong links with the town of Winsford to the south and Ellesmere Port to the west.

Map 1.1 Northwich and Rural North Area Partnership Board Area

1.3 The main town in the area is Northwich. Northwich's history as a settlement can be dated back to 70AD with the inhabitation and establishment of forts by Romans within town. It has only been since the 18th Century however that the noticeable growth and development of the town has taken place. The discovery of rock salt deposits in 1670 led to the development of Northwich as Cheshire's main salt manufacturing town. Extensive industrial areas in Winnington and Lostock surround the town centre. Subsidence as a result of Northwich's salt industry has historically caused severe problems within the town, with the creation of flashes to the north, limitations on development in the town centre, and the loss of many buildings and structures.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 5 Northwich and Rural North 1.4 In recent years, Northwich has become recognised as a key town within the North West Region. In 2004, the 'Northwich Vision' was launched, a 15 to 20 year regeneration framework that includes proposals for 19 individual sites within the town aimed at delivering a mixture of residential, retail, leisure, employment and tourism facilities and benefits. This regeneration is possible due to the completion in November 2007 of a £32 million land stabilisation project to fill the abandoned salt mines underneath the town centre.

6 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North 2 National, regional and local context

2.1 The following documents contain planning policy and development information relevant to Northwich and Rural North.

National

2.2 National Planning Policy Statements, available at www.communities.gov.uk

Regional

2.3 North West of England Plan Regional Spatial Strategy to 2021 (2008), available at www.gonw.gov.uk.

2.4 Policy RDF1 of the RSS recognises Northwich as a priority town where development should be focused within and around the town centre. Comparison retailing facilities should also be enhanced and encouraged in Northwich as stated in Policy W5.

2.5 In relation to housing provision, sufficient housing development is required to support key local regeneration priorities particularly in Northwich town centre and to address affordable housing needs.

2.6 Northwich lies within the Liverpool City region. Policy LCR5 states that plans and strategies within West Cheshire should support sustainable economic growth, investment and regeneration opportunities in Northwich and focus on meeting local needs.

Local

Adopted Vale Royal Borough Local Plan First Review Alteration (2006) Vale Royal Supplementary Planning Documents: SPD1 Affordable Housing, SPD2 Managing Housing Land Supply, SPD3 Developer Contributions, SPD4 Landscape Character and Wind Turbine Sensitivity, SPD5 Landscape Character West Cheshire Growth Point - Programme of Development (2008) Cheshire West and Chester Strategic Housing Market Assessment (in draft) Vale Royal Draft Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (2008) Cheshire West and Chester Employment Land Study (in draft) Cheshire Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 Cheshire Replacement Minerals Local Plan (1999) Cheshire Replacement Waste Local Plan (2007) Northwich Vision Interim Planning Guidance, 2004. Cheshire Town Centre Study (2006) Cheshire West and Chester Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (2008) Frodsham Forward Action Plan 2006-2010 Winsford Area Flood Risk Assessment (in draft) Northwich Area Flood Risk Assessment - February 2009 Weaverham Village Design Statement Hartford Village Design Statement Alvanley Village Design Statement - in draft Frodsham Town Design Statement - in draft Frodsham Castle Park Conservation Area Appraisal Frodsham Overton, Five Crosses and Overton St Lawrences Conservation Area Appraisals

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 7 Northwich and Rural North Frodsham Town Conservation Area Appraisals Hartford Conservation Area Appraisal Marston (Lion Salt Works) Conservation Area Appraisal Trent and Mersey Canal Conservation Area Map Weaverham Village Conservation Area Appraisal Weaverham West Road Conservation Area Appraisal Weaverham Parish Landscape Statement

8 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North 3 Context and characteristics

Role and Function

3.1 Northwich and the Rural North is located in the north east of Cheshire West and Chester. Northwich is the major town in the area, providing shops and services for people in the town and surrounding settlements. The surrounding area, known as 'Rural North' is characterised by open countryside (with much of the land in the northern portion of the area lying within the North Cheshire Green Belt), farmland and small villages. The market town of Frodsham lies to the west of the area which has developed to become a distinctive and attractive market town, with a mixture of historic buildings and independent traders.

3.2 The area has been mined for its salt pans since Roman times, Frodsham being used as the coastal port for the export of the salt from Northwich and beyond. These towns are linked by the River Weaver which flows through this area and meets the River Dane at Northwich. Frodsham and Helsby both overlook the Mersey Estuary and lie alongside the M56 motorway and the railway line between Chester and Manchester.

3.3 Industry has largely developed from the area's salt heritage, in the form of the chemical industry close to Northwich. A large portion of the former Brunner Mond works in Winnington, Wallerscote Works, is in the process of being cleared in readiness for redevelopment as the Winnington Urban Village, a mixed use residential development comprising of 1200 dwellings, commercial and retail units, and associated leisure and community facilities.

3.4 The surrounding area is dominated by rural farmland and small settlements. Settlements within the rural north include Frodsham, Helsby, Kingsley and Norley. Settlements in the urban area include Weaverham, Barnton, Davenham, Leftwich, Hartford and Rudheath which have strong connections with Northwich.

3.5 There are a number of tourist attractions in the area. The Mersey Forest covers a large part of north Cheshire, including the Rural North area. This network of woodland and green spaces brings together a range of environmental, health and economic benefits to the area, including the planting of new woodland through community and partnership working. The Mersey Forest is also a mechanism for delivering green infrastructure improvements and wider benefits to the area. Delamere Forest is a popular tourist destination, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Other attractions to the area include the Salt Museum in Northwich, the Anderton Boat lift linking the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal, the Lion Salt works museum in Marston and the Marbury Country Park.

The Weaver Valley

3.6 The River Weaver rises in the Peckforton Hills from where it meanders south towards Audlem before turning north and passing through Nantwich, Winsford and Northwich on the way to its confluence with the Mersey at Frodsham. It is joined at Northwich by the River Dane which flows through Middlewich and whose tributary the River Wheelock connects to Sandbach.

3.7 The Weaver Valley acts as a catalyst for investment and will lift aspirations, secure joined up action and provide an overarching plan to guide development and will work with other initiatives within Cheshire to deliver key social, economic and environmental benefits across Cheshire West and Chester. These include Northwich Vision, Market Town Initiative, Northwich Community Woodlands, Winning Winsford, Revive Reclamation Programme, Sandstone Ridge EcoNet Partnership, Rights of Way Improvement Plan, Local Transport Plan, Mersey Forest and Mersey Basin Campaign.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 9 Northwich and Rural North 3.8 A ‘Vision’ for the Weaver Valley has already been prepared and projects are currently being developed in greater detail in readiness for delivery. One such project is located just outside of the built-up area of Frodsham, namely the ‘Mouth of the Weaver’ project – which seeks to improve access and usage of the area through improvements to gateways, corridors and environmental infrastructure.

REVIVE

3.9 The Council has entered into a partnership with the North West Development Agency to transform 170 hectares of brownfield land within Cheshire and Warrington into an environmental asset. In March 2008 both Cheshire County Council and Warrington Borough Council signed an agreement to secure £17.3 million of NWDA funding, to finance the creation of new green spaces with improved public access and enhanced provision for nature conservation on previously developed land.

3.10 The programme is known as REVIVE and currently covers 20 individual sites. Site investigation, consultation, design and implementation works are to be carried out over a period of 7 years, with active management for 15 years after contract completion to ensure benefit from the investment is sustained. This will bring the total REVIVE programme period to 22 years.

3.11 The NWDA has identified within its Regional Strategy a need to invest in the image and environment of the region. The agency placed the treatment of derelict, underused and neglected land on a list of priorities within its Corporate Plan. The aim of the NWDA funding is to improve economic prospects for the region by creating a higher quality environment, improved image and attractive setting for inward investment. The creation of quality open spaces will provide opportunity for recreation, exercise and healthy lifestyles and enhanced biodiversity.

3.12 The Regional Agency has already funded site investigations and the production of a Business Plan. Council staff have been involved in discussions with landowners for some time and the confirmation of regional funding will allow negotiations to be finalised. Many of the sites lie within the proposed Weaver Valley.

Northwich Vision

3.13 Northwich plays an important sub regional role and serves an extensive rural hinterland as a centre for retail, employment and local services. A 15-20 year regeneration framework has been developed to set out a clear, ambitious yet achievable strategy for the renaissance of Northwich town centre. The strategy builds upon the analysis, research and community engagement which has been undertaken in recent years. The Northwich Vision identifies a series of exciting development projects throughout the town centre. Development potential will be released as a result of mine stabilisation works providing a unique opportunity to reposition Northwich as a key town within Cheshire and the North West, based around a powerful combination of a high quality market town offering quality shopping and public services and waterside visitor, leisure and residential developments. A strategy for integrated transportation will also be developed.

3.14 The development areas within the Northwich Vision include:

Baron's Quay A mixed use retail led development at Baron's Quay will form a catalyst for regeneration in the town centre. Development here will include retail, residential, office space, leisure use and a multi-purpose iconic cultural centre.

10 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North Weaver Shopping Centre This site will provide an extension to the existing shopping area. New car parking, residential and office uses will also be supported here. Land Adjacent to Victoria Bridge An attractive mixed use development comprising offices and residential development. Northwich Market An exciting architectural opportunity to create a new public square and iconic market canopy, which will act as a landmark within the town centre. Northwich Marina/Navigation Road/West of Queen Street These sites will provide high quality residential office and leisure uses in prominent waterfront locations. The sites will be a key focus for river relayed activity and provide a visitor destination point for Northwich. Civic Areas (County Council Offices, Magistrates Court, Memorial Hall) A contemporary landmark court building and high quality residential and mixed use development in a waterside setting. Lock Street This site has now been cleared and is allocated for a mixed use scheme. Northwich Station The partnership secured £500,000 to redevelop Northwich Station into a community-learning centre including cyber cafe, training rooms and coffee shop which has now been delivered. Sites East and West of Old Warrington Road These sites provide an opportunity to create both a new residential neighbourhood close to the centre and a mixed commercial development, creating a high quality gateway into Northwich Town Centre. North of Leicester Street Well-designed retail units will front onto a high quality landscaped boulevard.

Frodsham

Frodsham Forward

3.15 The Frodsham Forward Partnership was created in January 2003 as part of the national Market Towns Initiative. The community-led partnership was tasked with undertaking a "Health-check" to create a clear picture of the current situation (economically, socially and environmentally) in Frodsham, Helsby and the surrounding parishes. A public consultation took place to create this picture and identify needs and ambitions for the future.

3.16 Following the successful completion of the Health Check an action plan was developed to address local issues and bring aspirations to life. Addressing these issues and meeting these aspirations, at the heart of Frodsham Forward, are volunteers who live, work or study in Frodsham, Helsby and the surrounding villages.

3.17 One of Frodsham’s key assets is its location. It is accessible to the rail and motorway network (although noise from the M56 does pose issues for some residents within Frodsham), which add to its attractiveness as a location for business and to live.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 11 Northwich and Rural North Market Town Initiative

3.18 The Market Towns Initiative, part funded by the NWDA will develop and market Frodsham as part of a national drive to revitalise market towns as hubs for their local rural economies. This involves delivering the 'Frodsham Action Plan', which will implement environmental improvements, and local business and community projects, as well as facilitating long-term sustainable improvements in Frodsham and its surrounding villages.

3.19 Frodsham is one of 17 towns participating in the market towns initiative. The initiative aims to revitalise market towns as service centres for surrounding rural areas.

3.20 Frodsham has been identified through research, carried out by the former Cheshire County Council on behalf of the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), for an investment programme to introduce a range of improvements to make the town centre more attractive to shoppers and businesses alike. The objectives to deliver this Vision are to:

Exploit tourism assets, in particular the Weaver Valley; Improve gateways, connections and cohesiveness within the centre; Exploit location and transport infrastructure; Make maximum use of existing employment sites and development opportunities (source Cheshire & Warrington Market Towns Investment Prospectus - Roger Tym and Partners March 2009).

3.21 Sites considered through the investment prospectus include:

Frodsham Station

3.22 Frodsham has a number of built assets including the former station house and station buildings. These buildings are grade II listed and have been vacant for some time. The buildings are well located within the centre, behind the Church Street frontages and adjacent to the train station. The buildings are currently in Cheshire and Warrington Market Towns Investment Prospectus March 2009 and are being marketed. There has been some developer interest, although no firm proposals at this stage.

Frodsham Science and Technology Park

3.23 Just over 100m from Church Street, close to the centre of town, is Frodsham Science and Technology College, the site of which is due to be vacated in 2009. The school site will be a very large land asset and its value to the community should be maximised. Proposals for an Integrated Resource Centre for the Primary Care Trust are due to be submitted in the near future.

Castle Park

3.24 Slightly further from the centre, although still close to it, is Castle Park the town’s principal open space – which is considered to be a significant asset.

Weaver Park Industrial Estate

3.25 Slightly further afield, on the outskirts of the town, is Weaver Park Industrial Estate. It provides workspace for a number of small and medium enterprises but is in a poor state of repair. An opportunity exists to redevelop the site to provide new high quality business accommodation. In addition, it is considered that a case could be made for the parcel of adjacent land to be excluded from the greenbelt to enable its development as a future phase. A constraints study prepared on

12 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North behalf of the council has been undertaken to look at some of the issues surrounding the industrial estate ahead of its potential redevelopment. One major constraint to development of this site is the issue of severe flood risk.

Helsby Sports and Social Club

3.26 Located to the south west of Frodsham, Helsby provides a smaller retail centre. The former BICC site has been re-developed and provides a supermarket, residential units and a proposed extra care facility. Helsby Sports and Social Club has proposals for redevelopment which would include releasing the Green Belt land on which the club is currently built upon.

Ince Marshes

3.27 This site was first allocated for development for oil, chemical and related industry in 1979 through the initial Cheshire Structure Plan but such development has never come forward. It is a greenfield site on the edge of the Mersey Estuary which is a European site of nature conservation importance (RAMSAR and Special Protection Area (SPA)). In August 2009, the site was granted planning permission for a waste recovery facility.

Frodsham 'Walking Town'

3.28 Frodsham is becoming known as a 'walking town'. The Festival of Walks is arranged by Frodsham Town Council annually in April/May and is popular with walkers from far and wide.

3.29 A number of long distance paths start or pass through Frodsham including the Sandstone Trail, which starts in Frodsham's Main Street, the North Cheshire way, the Delamere Way and the Eddisbury Way.

3.30 The Woodland Trust has acquired large areas of woodland in Frodsham and has carried out many access improvements. The most recent is the Frodsham Hill Wood: 26.2 acres of woodland acquired in 2006.

Habitats and Hillforts

3.31 The habitats and hillforts for Cheshire’s sandstone ridge program is a Heritage Lottery Funded project (2008-11) which aims to converse the ridges Iron Age Hillforts, which are all Scheduled Monuments and surrounding wildlife habitats, and to encourage more people to access, learn about and become more involved in the area’s heritage.

3.32 The scheme has the following objectives: -

Conserving the hillforts and any associated features in the vicinity Restoring and increasing natural habitats in the vicinity of the forts, as these are areas of countryside that would be visited by people and the landscape setting could benefit from increasing areas for wildlife Making the hillforts more accessible by improving footpath access where appropriate and linking them to the Sandstone Trail Interpreting the historical landscape and the natural habitats and the management work being carried out to enhance them Involving the local communities surrounding the hillforts as well as a wider area Providing appropriate volunteering and training opportunities

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 13 Northwich and Rural North 3.33 Further details can be found at: www.habitatsandhillforts.co.uk

3.34 Hillforts within the Northwich and Rural North area include Helsby and Woodhouses.

Key Facts and Figures

Population

3.35 Northwich and Rural North had a population of 68,300 in 2007 which represents about 21% of the population of Cheshire West and Chester. Northwich had a population of 43,600 and Rural North had a population of 24,700. The population of Northwich and Rural North is expected to increase by about 5% between 2006 and 2016 according to the council's forecasts.

3.36 All of the parishes in the urban area around Northwich have populations between 3,500 and 7,000 these include: Weaverham, Barnton, Davenham, Hartford and Rudheath (the last three also overlap with the boundary of Winsford and Rural East). Frodsham, Helsby, Kingsley and Norley are parishes in the Rural North area. There are then another 14 parishes within the Rural North with the population of these ranging from 100 to 1000.

3.37 Northwich and Rural North had lower proportions of 20-34 year olds and higher proportions of those aged over 35 than England and Wales. This trend was more pronounced in the Rural North. The area has the lowest proportions of 20-24 year olds in Cheshire West and Chester and the highest actual numbers of 5-14 year olds in Cheshire West and Chester.

3.38 The area's population density in 2007 was 4.00 people per hectare, compared to the Cheshire West and Chester average of 3.49 per hectare. Northwich, however, has a higher density of 15.53 people per hectare whilst the Rural North areas had a lower density of 1.73 people per hectare.

Health

3.39 From the 2001 Census, 18% of people in the Northwich and Rural North APB area were reported as having limiting long term illness which was the same as the percentage in Cheshire West and Chester. The LSOA with the highest percentage of people with limiting long term illness was Winnington and North Witton (30%).

Index of Multiple Deprivation

3.40 The Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) provides information on deprivation affecting local communities. The main deprivation score is derived from seven domains: Income; Employment; Health and Disability; Education; Skills and Training; Barriers to Housing and Services; Living Environment Deprivation; and Crime. The Index of Multiple Deprivation uses Lower Super Output Areas, small geographical areas that nestle within council wards.

3.41 The 2007 IMD update identified Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton L3 LSOA as the 10th most deprived in Cheshire West and Chester. 4 LSOAs in Northwich and Rural North were in the top 20% most multiply deprived LSOA's nationally.

Ethnicity

3.42 In the 2001 Census, 99% of people in this area said they were either White British or Other White, which was similar to Cheshire West and Chester (98%).

14 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North Households

3.43 The 2001 Census showed there were 27,100 households in the Northwich and Rural North area. 11% of people lived alone, 53% of which were pensioners, similar to the Cheshire West and Chester average. The highest percentage of people living alone was in the Winnington and North Witton area (17%).

3.44 30% of households had dependent children in the Northwich and Rural North area, which is slightly higher than the Cheshire West and Chester average of 29%. 5% of all households in the area comprised of lone parents with dependent children, which is lower than the Cheshire West and Chester average. However, this figure rises to 9% in the Winnington and North Witton MSOA.

Housing Stock

3.45 The largest sector of housing in Northwich and Rural North were in Council Tax bands A to C (below the average band D) in 2007. The greatest proportion of houses in bands A to C was Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton (100%). The greatest proportion of houses in bands E to I was Hartford and Kingsmead (77%) (Department for Communities and Local Government, and Valuation Office Agency).

3.46 According to the 2001 Census 79% of households in Northwich and Rural North APB were owned, compared to 75% for Cheshire West and Chester. 14% of households were social rented, which was lower than the rate for Cheshire West and Chester (17%). The area with the highest percentage of social rented housing in Northwich and Rural North was Leftwich, Rudheath and WItton (29%). In 2006, the average property price for Northwich and Rural North APB was £182,683 (Source: HM Land Registry).

Employment and Economy

Employment by sector

3.47 In Northwich and Rural North, 86% of the area's industry was in the service sector (including banking, distribution and public administration, other services and transport) in 2007. The Banking, finance and insurance sector made up 36% of the area's industry alone. In addition, the area has nearly a quarter of Cheshire West and Chester's construction industry (23%) (NOMIS Official Labour Market Statistics).

Employment

3.48 31% of the population had managerial and professional roles (slightly higher that the proportions for the authority), 26% had never worked, were long term unemployed or were otherwise unclassified, 17% had intermediate, supervisory or technical roles, and 20% were in semi-routine and routine jobs (the same as the proportion for the authority). 7% were self-employed or worked on their own account.

3.49 At April 2009, the unemployment rate in Northwich and Rural North was 3.6% which was the same as the rate in Cheshire West and Chester Chester. Unemployment rates for Northwich were similar to those for England (NOMIS Official Labour Market Statistics).

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 15 Northwich and Rural North Qualifications

3.50 In the 2001 Census, 23% of 16-74 year olds were qualified to degree level or above, compared to 22 % in Cheshire West and Chester and 20% in England and Wales. 26% of 16-74 year olds had no qualifications, which is lower than the England and Wales average (29%) and slightly lower than for Cheshire West and Chester (27%).

3.51 However, levels of qualifications vary across the Northwich and Rural North area. For example, 34% of 16-74 year olds had degree level qualifications or above in Hartford and Kingsmead, Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton had the highest proportion of people aged 16-74 with no qualifications (39%) in the area.

Income

3.52 In 2008, average household income in Northwich and Rural North APB was £36,700, which was 3% above that for Cheshire West and Chester, and 7% above the GB average. The lowest average household income was in Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton (£29,600) and highest was in Hartford and Kingsmead (£50,200) which was also the highest in Cheshire West and Chester (Source: CACI PayCheck 2008).

Retail and Town Centres

Northwich

3.53 Northwich Town Centre is the main retail centre in the area and provides national multiple retailers, some independent traders and two indoor markets. The Northwich Vision is proposing to increase the retail offer through the regeneration of the town centre.

3.54 Northwich Town Centre performs an important shopping function for the local population, being placed within the top 15% of all UK shopping destinations (WYG Town Centre Study 2006). The town's retail sector is anchored by Bratts independent department store and Marks and Spencer. In addition to the two indoor markets, a farmers market takes place in Weaver Square every second Saturday of the month. Northwich also has an edge of centre retail park (Northwich Retail Park) with a number of large national multiple retailers. Tesco also have an edge of centre store on Manchester Road.

3.55 Provision of office accommodation within Northwich Town Centre is currently very limited and is comprised almost entirely of 'above the shop' type accommodation.

3.56 Overall, Northwich has an attractive and distinctive shopping environment, where comparison and convenience retail sectors are well represented in terms of unit numbers and total floorspace. Qualitatively, however, the comparison shopping offer in Northwich is poor catering for the lower end of the market. The quality and range of nightlife, entertainment and recreational facilities in Northwich also needs improvement (source: WYG 2006).

Frodsham

3.57 Frodsham has a smaller retail centre with independent traders and a market and there are local shops located in the smaller villages. Frodsham is an important centre serving principally local shopping needs. The majority of retail floorspace in the centre is occupied by convenience traders. Frodsham is accessible by a range of means of transport and has a centrally located railway station.

16 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North Travel and Transport

Road

3.58 Northwich and Rural North is well served by a network of major roads with strong links particularly to Manchester. The M56 linking Manchester to Ellesmere Port and North Wales runs to the north of the area and dissects the north west of the area around Frodsham. The A49 is located centrally within the area providing access to Warrington and the M56 to the north and Shropshire to the south. The A559 also dissects the north east of the area providing links from Northwich to the M56.

Rail

3.59 The Mid Cheshire line serves the Northwich and Rural North area with stations at Greenbank, Northwich, Cuddington and Delamere providing direct rail services between Chester and Manchester. The Mid-Cheshire line provides hourly services between Chester and Manchester, however the line is constrained by low line speeds, single track sections and track capacity towards Manchester. Preliminary work looking at the potential to reopen the Northwich - Sandbach freight line to passenger trains has been undertaken but there are no confirmed plans to reinstate passenger services on this line at present.

3.60 Northern Rail run services along the North Cheshire line from Chester to Manchester via Helsby, Frodsham, Runcorn and Warrington and also from Ellesmere Port to Helsby, Warrington Bank Quay and Liverpool Lime St.

Bus

3.61 Local bus services in the Northwich area provide links within Northwich and to Chester as well as surrounding towns and villages, including Weaverham, Barnton, Holmes Chapel, Winsford, Crewe, Sandbach, Frodsham and Middlewich. However, some of the smaller villages in the area have limited or no public transport services.

Cycling/Walking

3.62 A number of National Cycle Network routes pass through the Northwich and Rural North area including National Route 5 - Stoke to Runcorn and Regional Route 70 - Cheshire Cycle Way.

3.63 Northwich has secured funding from Sustrans Connect2 for the establishment of new and improved cycling routes to the south of the town centre centred around the proposal to replace the now disused Riversdale Bridge as a key walking and cycling connection.

Access Weaver

3.64 The wider Access Weaver project will create a network of primarily off road cycling and walking routes around planned growth areas. The spine of the network is based on the "Weaver Way".

Sustrans Connect 2 (Northwich Programme)

3.65 The Connect 2 Northwich Programme has been vital in developing a case for the new Riversdale Bridge as part of Sustrans wider proposals to improve access to the National Cycle Network in Northwich and along the Weaver Valley. £600,000 of Sustrans Connect2 funding has been secured to part fund the construction of an iconic new bridge over the River Weaver at Northwich

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 17 Northwich and Rural North on the site of the former Riverside Bridge. The new link will provide a vital link in the cycle network, reconnecting local communities and providing walking and cycling access to a number of schools and colleges.

Northwich Transport Strategy

3.66 To assist in bringing forward the large scale development opportunities proposed by Northwich Vision, a complementary transport strategy for Northwich has been developed. Given the expected car commuting in Northwich, it was decided that the Northwich Transport Strategy would be based on the principles of: reduction in car demand via a combination of measures, car park management, an urban traffic control system, Leicester Street improvements and implementation of a town centre gyratory system.

Cheshire West and Chester - Integrated Transport Strategy

3.67 This study is currently being undertaken to ensure that a comprehensive evidence base is assembled for the LDF. The initial findings from this study are provided within the Transport Topic Paper. This study has highlighted highway capacity constraints and congestion within and around Northwich. In particular, peak time congestion is an issue within the town centre and along main roads around Winnington, Gadbrook Park and Hartford.

Minerals and Waste

Minerals

3.68 There is currently one minerals site (construction sand and gravel) and several areas identified in the Cheshire Replacement Minerals Local Plan 1999 as Areas of Search for sand and gravel within Northwich and Rural North.

18 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North Waste

3.69 There is one Preferred Site identified in the Cheshire Replacement Waste Local Plan 2007 for waste management facilities at Lostock (East and West).

Water

3.70 Northwich has been identified specifically through the outcomes of the West Cheshire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment as an area that is both at risk of flooding and part of a large scale regeneration programme. An Area Flood Risk Assessment for Northwich Town Centre identifies the level of flood risk to the Northwich Vision Regeneration Project development sites, their vulnerability, applies the Sequential Test to each site and recommends mitigation measures for them.

3.71 The AFRA concluded that parts of the following sites are at greatest risk of flooding (within Flood Zone 3a and 3b):

Barons Quay Development Area Marina Development Site Lock Street Site Land West of Queen Street

Climate Change

3.72 In 2006, Northwich and Rural North APB area had higher than average consumption of domestic gas and electricity than Cheshire West and Chester and England and Wales. The area also had higher average consumption than England and Wales for Economy 7 electricity. Economy 7 is dual tariff, with cheaper rates for 7 hours during off-peak periods (Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR).

3.73 Northwich and Rural North APB used, on average, 24% more Economy 7 domestic electricity than England and Wales, 14% more domestic electricity than Chester APB and 14% more domestic gas than Ellesmere Port APB.

3.74 Gas was used for 79% of its domestic energy supply, which was about the same as in England and Wales.

3.75 Rural North has higher average consumption of all electricity and gas compared to Northwich, England and Wales.

3.76 A topic paper on Climate Change has been prepared and this will provide more detailed information relating to this issue.

Other

Education

3.77 The Council have been reviewing education provision across Cheshire West and Chester as part of its Transforming Learning Communities programme.

3.78 Education provision is currently under review around Northwich, which covers parts of Rural North around Davenham, Hartford and Cuddington. The results of the review are expected in Summer 2009.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 19 Northwich and Rural North 4 Key issues

4.1 There are a number of key questions and options for the Northwich and Rural North area, which relate to the key issues and problems identified within this topic paper.

4.2 The key issues relate to the following main themes:-

4.3 It is intended that Northwich Vision will play an important sub regional role. Northwich serves an extensive rural hinterland as a centre for retail, employment and local services. Key issues surrounding the proposals for Northwich include the number of sites prone to flooding and the increased burden on infrastructure.

4.4 The mix of rural and urban areas in Northwich and Rural North means there is a wide range of issues facing the area. The urban nature of Northwich and the regeneration opportunities is contrasted with the predominantly rural nature of the surrounding Rural North area. Areas of Northwich contain some of the most deprived areas in Cheshire West and Chester, whilst others areas surrounding Northwich contain the most affluent areas in Cheshire West and Chester.

Northwich

4.5 Northwich faces issues around deprivation, with areas of the town being within the top 20% most deprived nationally. Average household incomes in parts of Northwich are amongst the lowest in Cheshire West and Chester.

4.6 The Northwich Vision regeneration programme will place additional demand on the existing infrastructure. Capacity in relation to the transport network especially has been carefully assessed. Vehicular access to development sites can place high demand on the local road network, especially during peak hours, resulting in congestion. This is a particular problem on the A553 through Winnington, on the A556 around Gadbrook Park and the A559 through Hartford at peak times (Cheshire West and Chester Integrated Transport Strategy: Baseline Report, June 2009). A key issue for Northwich will therefore be to ensure the implementation of the Transport Strategy.

4.7 Issues around flood risk within Northwich town centre have been explored and concluded that four of the Northwich Vision regeneration sites are at high risk of flooding thus posing risk to people and the development opportunities on these sites if the risks are not appropriately addressed and managed and where appropriate mitigation measures are put in place. The Area Flood Risk Assessment will be a useful tool for prospective developers when addressing development and flood risk within Northwich and includes a guide for developers for each Northwich Vision site. Site specific flood risk assessments will need to be undertaken for each development site to consider the relevant mitigation measures and design proposals to address flood risk.

20 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North 4.8 The comparison shopping offer in Northwich has scope for improvement, catering for the lower end of the market. The quality and range of nightlife, entertainment and recreational facilities in Northwich also needs improvement. The retail capacity and leisure offer for Northwich town centre is therefore a key issue.

4.9 Ensuring the delivery of the Northwich Vision is therefore key for Northwich town centre and the Growth Point status of Cheshire West and Chester.

Frodsham

4.10 Whilst Frodsham has been identified for investment within the Market Towns Investment Prospectus, the performance of Frodsham as a retail location is relatively poor. It retains just 47% of locally generated convenience goods expenditure and just 13% of comparison goods expenditure. Due to its accessibility, the town does face competition from larger centres such as Liverpool, Chester and Warrington, as well as Cheshire Oaks, all of which are easily accessible from Frodsham.

4.11 Frodsham also under performs as an employment location. It is a net exporter of labour and has very low levels of self containment at just 26%. This is reflected in the minimal levels of non retail employment uses within the Town Centre. However, economic analysis suggests that Frodsham has a strong basis for growth in economic terms with projections of employment growth/economic capacity of 9% as a result of the town’s strong representation in the distribution, hotels and restaurants and financial and business services sectors (source - Cheshire & Warrington Market Towns Investment Prospectus - Roger Tym and Partners March 2009).

4.12 Access to affordable housing for first-time buyers, limited access to frequent, safe and affordable public transport and limited parking have also been identified as key issues for Frodsham (Frodsham Town Council 2009).

Rural North

4.13 Rural North contains some of the most affluent and desirable areas to live in Cheshire. High property prices in these areas act as a barrier for local people wishing to get onto the property ladder. Therefore, the provision of local affordable housing across the area is a major issue.

4.14 Rural North also contains a number of deprived areas, in particular, Leftwich, Rudheath and Witton. Rudheath is an area of neighbourhood renewal.

4.15 Public transport in the area is limited. Local bus services provide the only alternatives to the car in many areas, with services being infrequent. The Mid-Cheshire railway line serves the north of the area though services are also infrequent and many station facilities, such as Lostock Gralam, are in need of improvement. Access to services for those living in the rural villages is therefore a key issue facing the area.

4.16 Delamere Forest is a key tourist facility in the Rural North. It must be ensured that these facilities continue to be supported and attract visitors to the area, whilst maintaining environmental quality and suitable access arrangements.

4.17 There are potential sites for waste treatment located in or adjacent to the area, particularly at New Cheshire Salt Works in Wincham and Lostock within the Rural East. These would affect the Northwich and Rural North area in a variety of ways including air quality, traffic generation and environmental impacts.

Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - 21 Northwich and Rural North 5 Definitions/glossary

Area Flood Risk Assessment

A study looking into flood risk and flood mitigation proposals within Northwich Town Centre.

Flashes

A lake formed in the depression caused by subsidence after the mining process.

Market Towns Initiative

The Market Towns Initiative', aims to drive the renaissance of the rural economy, aims to combat economic under performance, physical dereliction and social exclusion in rural areas. Other objectives of the programme include aiding planning demands, transport, services, community empowerment and heritage,

Northwich Vision

A 15-20 year regeneration framework that includes urban design guidance, 18 design briefs covering a range of key development sites and a strategy for integrated transportation and will be the vehicle that delivers this ambitious renaissance.

Strategic Flood Risk Assessment

A study looking at the potential flood risk areas across West Cheshire.

22 Cheshire West and Chester Local Development Framework | Topic Paper - Northwich and Rural North