Frodsham could be left 'unrecognizable' if radical planning reforms are forced through by the government.

The town's MP Mike Amesbury, who is also the Shadow Minister for Housing and Planning, says the government plans - which have been branded 'a developers' charter' - would remove powers from elected councillors on local planning committees and hand them over to Whitehall-appointed boards of developers.

Changes would limit residents' chance to have their say on proposals that affect their street or community, with participation limited to when the council sets its local plan every few years.

"A further blow to our local democracy"

Mike said: "Areas like Frodsham, Helsby and Kingsley have been protected in the past by the fact councillors on planning committees could receive representations from concerned local residents and then make recommendations to change or even block proposals."

He added: "In a further blow to our local community, developers will no longer be required to make section 106 levy contributions to provide affordable housing for developments of up to 50 houses.

"New housing targets will be imposed on the Cheshire West and Chester area by using an algorithm. These targets will see a massive 168% increase in house building, threatening our green belt and community infrastructure."

For more information on the Planning for the Future consultation, click here.

To take part in the consultation on the plans which is open until October 29, click here or contact [email protected].