Concerns have been raised over the environmental and safety impact of proposals aimed at preventing flooding at Poynton Pool.
Macclesfield MP David Rutley has been speaking with officers at Cheshire East Council to review the plans and highlight residents’ concerns.
He recently met with head of estates, Andy Kehoe, where the pair discussed a number of options being considered for Poynton Pool.
Following publication of the council’s proposals, Mr Rutley said a number of residents had contacted him to raise their concerns about a range of issues – including the possible removal of trees.
As Poynton Pool is classed as a reservoir under the Reservoirs Act, regular compulsory inspections are carried out to review its safety and ensure it complies with current safety standards.
After the latest inspection by specialist engineers, the council say it hopes to carry out safety improvement works along a stretch of the bank between Poynton Pool and London Road North.
During the meeting between Mr Rutley and Mr Kehoe, it was confirmed that a number of options are being explored and that the views of local residents are being considered – including those discussed at a recent public meeting organised by Poynton Town Council.
Mr Rutley urged Cheshire East Council to protect the trees, and said the council will continue to work with engineers before it submits a formal planning application for the scheme.
He said it was expected this would be put forward early in 2023.
Speaking after his meeting, Mr Rutley said, “I am grateful to Cheshire East Council for arranging the recent site visit to Poynton Pool in response to concerns raised by local residents and local councillors.
“The council is actively considering how best to balance actions to address potential safety risks from flooding and the impact on the local environment.
“I very much hope that an approach can be formulated that would protect the trees and related habitats along the side of the pool, at this much-valued local community amenity.”
