The problem was a daunting one. It emerged very late in a Core Strategy planning process that part of an exceptionally well located, strategic site of c.130 ha (c.320 acres) in Greater Manchester was to be reallocated as Green Belt. The cause was a passive response to the local authority proposal, and also limited engagement with stakeholders. As a consequence, there was a real risk of losing an existing allocation for development of c.93,000 sq. m. (1,000,000 sq. ft.). Following appointment by the land owner, initial analysis identified key stakeholders in a complex local scene. Charles Gardner personally handled active stakeholder engagement, and also led the client’s appointed team of experts through a series of intense formal planning stages. Submission of a strong technical case, considered liaison, and newly fostered stakeholder support secured an employment allocation in the Council’s newly adopted Core Strategy. A collaborative relationship with the local authority was established and endures, as the land owner and Goshawk strive to meet new challenges thrown up in 2013 by HS2.
