Employment Article 4 Directions - Making Consultation 2026

Support

Representation ID: 17358

Received: 17/09/2026

Respondent: Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside

I am writing on behalf of Groundwork, an occupier based at Gadbrook Park, to express our support for the proposed Article 4 Direction covering the business park.

Gadbrook Park is one of Cheshire West and Chester's premier employment locations, providing high-quality accommodation for a diverse range of businesses and supporting significant levels of employment, investment and economic activity. Its continued success depends upon maintaining a balanced and sustainable environment that is capable of meeting the needs of existing and future occupiers.

We believe the Article 4 Direction represents an important planning tool to help safeguard the long-term viability and strategic role of the park. The removal of certain permitted development rights will ensure that changes of use are subject to appropriate planning scrutiny and assessment, allowing the Council to consider the cumulative impacts of development proposals on employment land, infrastructure, transport networks, business operations and the overall functioning of the estate.

As an occupier, we are particularly concerned that unrestricted changes of use could undermine the availability of high quality employment space and undermine the business focused character that has made Gadbrook Park an attractive destination for investment. The park accommodates a wide range of employers, and maintaining a suitable stock of employment premises is essential to supporting business growth, attracting inward investment and sustaining local jobs.

The Article 4 Direction will provide greater certainty for businesses already operating on the park and help ensure that future development proposals are considered in the context of the wider economic objectives of the area. In doing so, it will support the continued success, competitiveness and attractiveness of Gadbrook Park as a strategic employment location within Cheshire West and Chester.

We therefore strongly support the Council's proposal and encourage its adoption to protect the long term economic value and purpose of Gadbrook Park for businesses, employees and the wider local economy.