Masterplan Baseline Report

Churnet Valley Masterplan Baseline Report 

1 Introduction 

1.1 Background 

1.2 Study Area 

1.3 Purpose of the Masterplan 

1.4 Masterplan Stages 

1.5 Emerging Principles 

1.6 Key Opportunity Sites 

1.7 Studies and Assessments 

2 Planning Context 

2.1 National Planning Guidance 

2.2 Regional Planning 

2.3 Local Planning Policy 

2.4 Other documents 

2.5 Planning History 

3 Historical Context 

4 Community 

5 Economy 

6 Landscape 

7 Environment 

7.1 Overview 

7.2 European Designated Sites 

7.3 Regional and Local Designations 

7.4 Nature Reserves and Country Parks 

7.5 Biodiversity Opportunities Mapping 

7.6 Green Infrastructure Strategy 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Development Framework - January 2012 

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8 Accessibility and Connectivity 

8.1 Overview 

8.2 Highway 

8.3 Walking 

8.4 Cycling 

8.5 Horse Riding 

8.6 Other Modes 

8.7 Opportunities to Improve Accessibility and Connectivity 

8.8 Relevant Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership Projects 

9 Open space and recreation 

9.1 Current Open Space and Visual Open Space 

9.2 Future Open Space Requirements 

9.3 Recreation 

10 Key opportunity sites 

10.1 Overview 

10.2 Cornhill 

10.3 Consall Hall Gardens 

10.4 Moneystone Quarry 

10.5 Bolton Copperworks Froghall 

10.6 Alton Towers 

11 Other Potential Opportunities 

11.1 Anzio Camp, Blackshaw Moor 

11.2 Churnet Works, Leek 

11.3 Cotton College 

11.4 Land at Mollatts Wood 

11.5 Re-opening the Railway 

11.6 Restoration of the Uttoxeter Canal 

11.7 Market Towns 

12 Summary of Baseline Findings 



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1 Introduction 

1.1 Background 

1.1.1 The Churnet Valley lies in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands. It is an 

area of high landscape value with important landscape features including the River 

Churnet, Caldon Canal and large sways of woodland including ancient woodland. 

The River Churnet flows from higher land north of Tittesworth Reservoir which includes 

The Roaches, through Leek, Cheddleton, Froghall, Oakamoor and Alton and joins 

the River Dove beyond Rocester. Running through the Churnet Valley are the Churnet 

Valley Railway and the Caldon Canal. The Churnet Valley Railway runs from 

Leekbrook to Froghall with stations at Cheddleton, Consall and Kingsley & Froghall. 

The railway line running between Leekbrook and Cauldon Lowe has recently 

re-opened. The Caldon Canal runs through the area from Leek to Froghall. 

1.2 Study Area 

1.2.1 The length of the corridor has already been established through the emerging 

Core Strategy policy SS7 which identifies the corridor as running from Tittesworth 

Reservoir and Rudyard Lake in the north west of the District to Alton in the south 

east, however the breadth of the study area is less clear at this stage and will be 

informed by the findings of this baseline report and other studies which have been 

prepared to help to understand the context of the Masterplan. A suggested boundary 

will form part of the public consultation on options for the Masterplan. 

1.2.2 Within the area there are a number of villages of varying sizes ranging from 

small villages such as Consall, to large villages such as Cheddleton. The market 

towns of Leek and Cheadle adjoin the area. 

1.2.3 The corridor is crossed by major roads including the A523 (Leek - 

Macclesfield), A53 (Leek -Stone), A520 (Leek - Stone) and A52 (Stoke - Derby). 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Development Framework - January 2012


Figure 1.1 Staffordshire Moorlands in wider context 


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1.2.4 Froghall is located in the central part of the corridor, and other than Leek, it 

is the only place along the corridor where a major road crosses, the A52 

(Stoke-Derby). Stoke is approximately 10 miles west of Froghall, and Derby is 

approximately 25 miles to the south east and approximately 22 miles to the south 

lies Stafford. The Peak District National Park lies to the east. Cannock Chase Area 

of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) lies in the south of the County. Both are major 

tourism and recreation areas in relatively close proximity of the Churnet Valley. 

1.3 Purpose of the Masterplan 

1.3.1 The emerging Core Strategy vision identifies that tourism will be a key 

element in the diversification of the District’s economy, contributing significantly to 

raising environmental quality, and to the regeneration of the District. It expects the 

diversity and quality of the District’s natural and historic assets to improve and greater 

use to be made of the opportunities they provide for recreation and tourism, particularly 

in the Churnet Valley which will become a significant tourist attraction. 

1.3.2 The emerging Core Strategy, Policy SS7, identifies the Churnet Valley as 

a sustainable tourism corridor running from Tittesworth Reservoir and Rudyard Lake 

in the north west of the District, following the route of the River Churnet through Leek, 

Cheddleton and Froghall, to Alton in the south east of the District. It covers an area 

of some 15 miles in length. The production of a Masterplan for the Churnet Valley 

is a requirement of this emerging policy. 

1.3.3 Once adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), the Masterplan 

will have a major influence on future planning decisions affecting the area and on 

other initiatives and strategies. It will identify opportunities and measures to help 

regenerate and manage the area based around sustainable tourism which is sensitive 

to and enhances its important heritage, landscape and ecology. 

1.3.4 The Churnet Valley is seen as having the potential to act as a sub-regional 

asset and to complement and ease pressure on the neighbouring Peak District 

National Park. 

1.4 Masterplan Stages 

1.4.1 Four key stages have been identified in the production of the masterplan 

these are summarised in the table below: 

Stage 

Stage 1 

Description 

Collecting baseline data and 

undertaking additional studies 

Date 

Complete - this document and 

Churnet Valley Accessibility and 

Connectivity Study, Staffordshire 

Moorlands Tourism Study and 

Churnet Valley Landscape 

Character Assessment 


Stage 

Stage 2 

Stage 3 

Stage 4 

Description 

Visioning 

Developing Options and Consultation 

on Options 

Publication of Draft Masterplan 

Adoption of Masterplan 


Date 

Complete 

Autumn / Winter 2011/ Early 

2012 

Spring / Summer 2012 

Summer/ Autumn 2012 

Table 1.1 Timetable and stages involved in the preparation of the Masterplan 

1.4.2 The first stage of the masterplan work is now concluded, as identified in the 

project brief, with the production of this baseline report and the completion of additional 

studies to inform the masterplan including a Churnet Valley Landscape Character 

Assessment, Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study and Churnet Valley Accessibility 

and Connectivity Study. 

1.4.3 A visioning exercise and feedback session took place in March 2011. A wide 

range of stakeholders were invited to these events including District Councillors, 

Parish Councils in the Churnet Valley, businesses and organisations. 

1.4.4 The visioning event included a presentation of strategic urban design and 

place making principles by the CABE appointed enabler. Workshops took place 

aimed at exploring the character and identity of the Churnet Valley, identifying key 

principles of a vision for the Churnet Valley based on the concept of sustainable 

tourism and exploring the key role of the opportunities in the Churnet Valley including 

the key opportunity sites. 

1.4.5 The presentations from these events and feedback summary sheets are 

available separately on the Council’s website: 

http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/churnetvalleymasterplan 

1.4.6 The Council is undertaking a series of events called 'Community 

Conversations' which will be used to inform the preparation of the Site Allocations 

Development Plan Document (DPD). The first round of these took place in summer 

2011 focusing on the villages in the Churnet Valley and the outcomes of these events 

will be used to inform the preparation of the Churnet Valley Masterplan. Further 

information on the Community Conversation and feedback from the round one events 

is available on the Council's website: 

http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/communityconversations 

1.4.7 Consultation on options for the masterplan is time tabled to take place in 

early 2012. The outcome of this consultation will be used to inform the preparation 

of a draft masterplan. Publication and consultation on the draft masterplan is time 

tabled to take place in spring/ summer 2012. 


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1.5 Emerging Principles 

1.5.1 Five emerging principles have been identified for the Masterplan. These are 

that the Masterplan should: 

Emerging Principles 

1. Ensure that communities are at the heart of the future Churnet Valley: 

by developing the vision for the Churnet Valley in partnership with local 

community groups 

by ensuring that future development brings benefits for local communities 

through provision of employment, new or improved services and facilities, 

improved accessibility and connectivity, and affordable housing. To ensure 

a sustainable future for communities in the Churnet Valley. 

2. Support local enterprise and create local employment opportunities: 

by recognising and promoting the need for small modern business units and 

facilities for business start-up including live/ work units 

by enabling employment opportunities beyond tourism and offering help 

and support for all local businesses in the Churnet Valley 

by encouraging sustainable trading i.e. local markets for local producers to 

reduce carbon footprint 

by retaining and building on traditional skills present in the Churnet Valley 

which the Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership is seeking to achieve. 

3. Improve accessibility and connectivity: 

by recognising and promoting gateways to the Churnet Valley including the 

towns of Cheadle and Leek 

by promoting sustainable modes of transport (rail / canal / foot / cycling/ 

horse riding) and ensuring that there are transport hubs 

by maintaining and improving roads and signposting 

by addressing need for strategically located car parking particularly to act 

as hubs to then use sustainable modes (foot/ cycling/ rail/ canal/ horse 

riding) to explore the Valley 

by addressing traffic hotspots 

through measures which benefit local communities as well as visitors. 

4. Respect, enhance and protect the positive aspects of the Churnet 

Valley: 

through ensuring that future development responds to the environmental, 

ecological and landscape limits 

by recognising the contribution of industrial historic buildings and structures 

and areas of special archaeological interest 


y seeking the highest levels of environmental and sustainable technologies 

for future developments 

by having shared expectations for development 

by integration with the Churnet Valley Living Landscape Project and 

recognising the positive impact this project can have for the future of the 

Churnet Valley 

through viable land management that connects to habitats and creates a 

living landscape 

by supporting opportunities to create and promote further biodiversity 

by securing the complementary redevelopment of major brownfield sites. 

5. Deliver quality and sustainable tourism: 

by enhancing visitor facilities and unlocking the potential of underutilised 

assets 

by promoting a year round visitor offer 

by focusing on quality rather than quantity 

through encouraging more overnight stays and by dispersing visitors which 

would increase benefit to the local economy 

by giving preference to incremental improvements. 

1.5.2 These principles will be used to develop a vision for the Churnet Valley which 

will form part of the masterplan options consultation. They will be used to inform and 

develop options for the masterplan. During the preparation of the masterplan these 

principles may be further amended in light of additional information and/or new 

evidence. 

1.6 Key Opportunity Sites 


1.6.1 There are a number of key opportunity sites which have been identified for 

further consideration as part of the Masterplan process because there are known 

pressures for change in these areas. These include Cornhill, Consall Hall Gardens, 

Bolton Copperworks, Moneystone Quarry and Alton Towers. Other opportunity sites 

may be identified during the masterplanning process. 


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1.7 Studies and Assessments 

Figure 1.2 Key Attractions and Opportunities 

1.7.1 The following key studies and assessments are to be used to inform the 

masterplan: 

Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study, AECOM (2011) 

Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment , Wardell Armstrong (2011) 

Employment Land Study, Atkins (2006) 

Employment Land Study Review, Atkins (2008) 

Staffordshire Moorlands Biodiversity Opportunities Map, Staffordshire Wildlife 

Trust (2011) 


Stafforshire Moorlands Historic Environment Character Assessment, Staffordshire 

County Council (2011) 

Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study, TEAM (2011) 

2 Planning Context 

2.1 National Planning Guidance 

2.1.1 When preparing local development documents national planning policy should 

be taken into consideration. This section identifies national planning guidance which 

is of key importance in informing the preparation of the Churnet Valley Masterplan. 

It is not exhaustive but sets out the relevant national planning policy context. Planning 

Policy Statement (PPS) 1: Delivering Sustainable Development provides the 

"overarching planning policies on the delivery of sustainable development through 

the planning system." (1) 

It identifies "Sustainable development is the core principle 

underpinning planning. At the heart of sustainable development is the simple idea 

of ensuring a better quality of life for everyone, now and for future generations." (2) 

PPS 1 sets out how planning should "facilitate and promote sustainable and inclusive 

forms of urban and rural development by: 

Making suitable land available for development in line with economic, social 

and environmental objectives to improve people's quality of life; 

Contributing to sustainable economic development; 


Protecting and enhancing the natural and historic environment, the quality and 

character of the countryside, and existing communities; 

Ensuring high quality development through good and inclusive design, and the 

efficient use of resources; and, 

Ensuring that development supports existing communities and contributes to 

the creation of safe, sustainable, liveable and mixed communities with good 

access to jobs and key services for all members of the community" (3) 

2.1.2 Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) 2: Green Belt sets out the national 

planning policy guidance on development in the Green Belt. The document sets out 

the purpose of the Green Belt, "The fundamental aim of Green Belt policy is to prevent 

urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open; the most important attribute of 

Green Belts is their openness." (4) In the Green Belt there is a "general presumption 

against inappropriate development within them. Such development should not be 

1 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2005) Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development Introduction 

2 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2005) Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development paragraph 

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3 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2005) Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development paragraph 

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4 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (1995 amended 2001) Planning Policy Guidance 2 : Green Belts paragraph 1.4 


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approved, except in very special circumstances." (5) PPG 2 states that, "Inappropriate 

development is, by definition, harmful to the Green Belt. It is for the applicant to 

show why permission should be granted. Very special circumstances to justify 

inappropriate development will not exist unless the harm by reason of 

inappropriateness, and any other harm, is clearly outweighed by other 

considerations." (6) PPG 2 identifies that most forms of development which involves 

the construction of new buildings inside the Green Belt is inappropriate with paragraph 

3.4 listing the forms of new development which are not inappropriate examples 

relevant to the Masterplan include essential facilities for outdoor sport and recreation, 

limited infilling in existing villages and limited affordable housing for local community 

needs under development plan policies and limited infilling or redevelopment of major 

existing developed sites identified in adopted local plans. 

2.1.3 Parts of the Churnet Valley area lie within the Green Belt and consideration 

will need to be had for this in the preparation of the Masterplan. 

2.1.4 Planning Policy Statement 3: Planning for Housing - sets out the 

Government's approach to planning for housing and includes requirements and 

considerations that local planning authorities should have in the preparation of 

development plans. Paragraph 3 states, "This PPS reflects the Government's 

commitment to improving the affordability and supply of housing in all communities, 

including rural areas, informed by the findings of the Affordable Rural Housing 

Commission. The delivery of housing in rural areas should respect the key principles 

underpinning this PPS, providing high quality housing that contributes to the creation 

and maintenance of sustainable rural communities in market towns and villages." (7) 

2.1.5 Planning Policy Statement 4 Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth, 

policy EC7.1 sets out the Government's approach to economic development including 

rural areas. It states, “local planning authorities should support sustainable rural 

tourism and leisure developments that benefit rural businesses, communities and 

visitors and which utilise and enrich, rather than harm, the character of the countryside, 

its towns, villages, buildings and other features. Local planning authorities should, 

through their local development frameworks: 

a. support the provision and expansion of tourist and visitor facilities in appropriate 

locations where identified needs are not met by existing facilities in rural service 

centres, carefully weighing the objective of providing adequate facilities or 

enhancing visitors’ enjoyment or improving the financial viability of the facility 

with the need to protect landscapes and environmentally sensitive sites, and 

b. wherever possible, locate tourist and visitor facilities in existing or replacement 

buildings, particularly where they are located outside existing settlements. 

Facilities requiring new buildings in the countryside should, where possible, be 

provided in, or close to, service centres or villages but may be justified in other 

locations where the required facilities are required in conjunction with a particular 



7 Department for Communities and Local Government (fourth edition 2011) paragraph 3 



countryside attraction and there are no suitable existing buildings or developed 

sites available for re-use 

c. support extensions to existing tourist accommodation where the scale of the 

extension is appropriate to its location and where the extension may help to 

ensure the future viability of such businesses 

d. ensure that new or expanded holiday and touring caravan sites and chalet 

developments are not prominent in the landscape and that any visual intrusion 

is minimised by effective, high-quality screening and examine the scope for 

relocating any existing, visually or environmentally-intrusive sites away from 

sensitive areas or from sites prone to flooding or coastal erosion 

e. recognise that in areas statutorily designated for their natural or cultural heritage 

qualities, there will be scope for tourist and leisure related developments, subject 

to appropriate control over their number, form and location to ensure the particular 

qualities or features that justified the designation are conserved” (8) 

2.1.6 Policy EC 6.1 of PPS 4 sets out more general planning guidance for economic 

development in rural areas identifying that “Local planning authorities should ensure 

that the countryside is protected for the sake of its intrinsic character and beauty, 

the diversity of the landscapes, heritage and wildlife, the wealth of its natural resources 

and to ensure it may be enjoyed by all.” (9) 

2.1.7 Policy EC6.2 states, “In rural areas, local planning authorities should: 

a. strictly control economic development in open countryside away from existing 

settlements, or outside areas allocated for development in development plans 

b. identify local service centres (which might be a country town, a single large b. 

village or a group of villages) and locate most new development in or on the 

edge of existing settlements where employment, housing (including affordable 

housing), services and other facilities can be provided close together 

c. support the conversion and re-use of appropriately located and suitably 

constructed existing buildings in the countryside (particularly those adjacent or 

closely related to towns or villages) for economic development 

d. set out the permissible scale of replacement buildings and circumstances where 

replacement of buildings would not be acceptable 

e. seek to remedy any identified deficiencies in local shopping and other facilities 

to serve people’s day-to-day needs and help address social exclusion 

f. set out the criteria to be applied to planning applications for farm diversification, 

and support diversification for business purposes that are consistent in their 

scale and environmental impact with their rural location 

g. where appropriate, support equine enterprises, providing for a range of suitably 

located recreational and leisure facilities and the needs of training and breeding 

businesses that maintain environmental quality and countryside character." (10) 

8 Department for Communities and Local Government (2009) Planning Policy Statement 4 Policy E7.1a 

9 Department for Communities and Local Government (2009) Planning Policy Statement 4 Policy E6.1 

10 Department for Communities and Local Government (2009) Planning Policy Statement 4 EC6.2 


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2.1.8 Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment 

sets out national policies on the conservation of the historic environment. Policy 

HE3.1 states that "local development frameworks should set out a positive, proactive 

strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment in their area; 

taking into account the variations in type and distribution of heritage assets, as well 

as the contribution made by the historic environment by virtue of: 

i. Its influence on the character of the environment and an area's sense of place 

ii. Its potential to be a catalyst for regeneration in an area, in particular through 

leisure, tourism and economic development 

iii. The stimulus it can provide to inspire new development of imaginative and high 

quality design 

iv. The re-use of existing fabric, minimising waste; and 

v. Its mixed and flexible patterns of land use that are likely to be, and remain, 

sustainable." (11) 

2.1.9 Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas 

sets out the Government's approach to development in rural areas however the 

economic development sections of this PPS have been replaced by PPS 4: Planning 

for Sustainable Growth. PPS 7 states, "Planning policies should provide a positive 

framework for facilitating sustainable development that supports traditional land - 

based activities and makes the most of new leisure and recreational opportunities 

that require a countryside location. Planning authorities should continue to ensure 

that the quality and character of the wider countryside is protected and, where possible 

enhanced. They should have particular regard to any areas that have been statutorily 

designated for their landscape, wildlife or historic qualities where greater priority 

should be given to restraint of potentially damaging development." (12) With regard 

to nationally designated areas such as National Parks and AONBs it states, Nationally 

designated areas comprising of National Parks, the Broads, the New Forest Heritage 

Area and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), have been confirmed by the 

Government as having the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and 

scenic beauty. The conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape and 

countryside should therefore be given great weight in planning policies and 

development control decisions." (13) 

2.1.10 Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation 

sets out national planning policies on protecting biodiversity and geological 

conservation. There is also good practice guidelines which accompany this PPS. 

2.1.11 Planning Policy Guidance 13: Transport sets out the Government's 

approach to achieving the objectives of the guidance which are to: 

11 Department for Communities and Local Government (2010) Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic 

Environment Policy HE3.1 

12 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2004) Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas 

paragraph 15 

13 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2004) Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas 

paragraph 21 



1. "promote more sustainable transport choices for both people and for moving 

transport freight 

2. promote accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure facilities and services by public 

transport, walking and cycling; and 

3. Reduce the need to travel, especially by car" (14) 

2.1.12 National planning policy guidance on open space, sport and recreation is 

contained in Planning Policy Guidance 17: Planning for Open Space, Sport and 

Recreation. Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy establishes the 

Governments approach to renewable energy. Planning Policy Statement 25: 

Development and Flood Risk sets out the Government's approach through the 

planning system to development and flood risk, "The aim of planning policy on 

development and flood risk are to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all 

stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk 

of flooding, to direct development away from areas of high risk." (15) Planning Policy 

Statement: Planning and Climate Change sets out how "planning should contribute 

to reducing emissions and stabilising climate change." (16) 

2.1.13 In 2006, Good Practice Guide on Planning for Tourism was published, 

key messages include that the documents highlights the importance of tourism to 

the economy and the social and environmental well being of the country and it is 

intended to ensure that in preparing planning documents and making planning 

decisions "planners understand the importance of tourism and take this fully into 

account when preparing development plans and taking planning decisions." (17) The 

guidance highlights that "Tourism can bring many broader benefits that will contribute 

to the economic and social well being of local communities as well as to individuals. 

It can 

be the focus of regeneration of urban and rural areas, as has been demonstrated 

by its success in Birmingham and in many seaside resorts; 

provide a catalyst for growth in an area, raising its profile and stabilising 

out-migration; 

provide opportunities for retraining for the resident workforce and help to diversify 

over-specialised economies; and 

help maintain and expand underused sports and recreation facilities in urban 

area" (18) 

2.1.14 The document goes on to state, "The revenue generated by tourism can 

help to: 

14 Department for Communities and Local Government (2006) Planning Policy Guidance Note 13 paragraph 2 

15 Department for Communities and Local Government (2006 revised 2010) Planning Policy Statement 25: Development 

and Flood Risk paragraph 5 

16 Department of Communities and Local Government (2007) Planning Policy Statement: Planning and Climate Change 

page 1 

17 Department for Communities and Local Government (2006) Good Practice Guide on Planning for Tourism paragraph 

1.1 


2.4 


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Support and enhance local services and facilities such as shops, pubs, 

particularly in rural areas; 

Secure the retention and upgrading of public services such as public transport, 

health centres and libraries; 

Support a broader and more vibrant and active community by attracting arts, 

sports and cultural events; 

Aid diversification within the rural economy; and 

Underpin the quality of the local environment and facilitate further enjoyment of 

it by residents and visitors" (19) 

2.1.15 The document goes on to state that, "these benefits can be particularly 

valuable in rural areas as they may provide amenities that people would otherwise 

not have access to." (20) 

2.1.16 It also recognises that, "Tourism depends heavily on the natural and built 

environment and can also be the key to maintaining and enhancing the environment: 

The economic benefits of tourism in particular can help to sustain and improve 

both the natural and built physical environment. 

Derelict land and buildings may be brought back into use and the countryside 

can be better maintained. 

Visitors to historic buildings, archaeology and landscapes can provide income 

or voluntary effort which help maintain and conserve such assets. 

In rural areas the health of the environment and of the community depends on 

the viability of the local economy. So areas which attract visitors for their scenic 

beauty and which enjoy income from tourism will be better able to sustain the 

local environment 

Proposals involving high quality design improve the visual and environmental 

experience for visitors and the local community alike." (21) 

2.1.17 The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a tariff based approach to 

funding infrastructure required as a result of new development. Rates are set for 

certain forms of development such as housing, retail, employment etc to fund 

infrastructure that is required as a result of development. These rates can be set by 

zone if evidence is available to demonstrate that this is appropriate. Staffordshire 

Moorlands District Council is currently considering CIL. If it decides to take forward 

CIL it may be possible to set a charging regime for future development in the Churnet 

Valley. Amendments to the Community Infrastructure Regulations came into force 

on 6 April 2011. Guidance on CIL is available in the document 'Community 

Infrastructure Levy: An overview' which was published in May 2011. 


2.5 


2.5 


2.6 


2.1.18 The list contained above is not exhaustive but highlights some of the relevant 

Government planning policy statements and guidance to be considered in the 

preparation of the Masterplan. 

2.1.19 Recently the Government has undertaken consultation on a Draft National 

Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The purpose of the NPPF is to simplify the 

planning system through consolidating existing Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) 

and Planning Policy Guidance (PPGs) and circulars. It proposes a number of policy 

changes including the introduction of a "presumption in favour of sustainable 

development." 

2.2 Regional Planning 

2.2.1 The Localism Act gives powers to the Secretary of State to revoke regional 

strategies. The Council has undertaken work to make amendments to the emerging 

Core Strategy policies to address any policy gaps that are likely to arise from the 

abolition of the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy. It is therefore not felt 

necessary to provide details in this report of current RSS policy. Consultation on the 

Core Strategy Revised Submission Document is to take place from the 12 December 

2011 to the 3 February 2012. 

2.3 Local Planning Policy 

2.3.1 The Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan Saved policies that are of particular 

relevance to the Churnet Valley Masterplan include the natural environment policies 

on the Green Belt and Special Landscape Area as much of the rural area which the 

Churnet Valley Masterplan will cover is currently designated as Green Belt and/ or 

Special Landscape Area. The Local Plan Saved policies include specific policies on 

tourism development, development at Alton Towers and specific policies regarding 

the railway and development along the Caldon Canal 

2.3.2 The Core Strategy, once adopted, will replace the Local Plan. The Council 

will be publishing a revised Core Strategy Submission Version in December. The 

following emerging Core Strategy policies are of particular relevance to the 

development of the Masterplan: 

Policy SS7 - Churnet Valley Tourism Corridor 

The Churnet Valley shall be identified as a major sustainable tourism 

corridor. Within this corridor the following forms of development and 

measures will be supported: 

short stay and long stay visitor accommodation; 

tourist facilities and services; 

extension of the Churnt Valley Railway; 

links to strategic footpaths/cycle routes; 

improvements to the Caldon Canal; 



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the potential for restoration of the Uttoxeter Canal; 

the redevelopment of the Bolton Copperworks site at Froghall (see 

Policy SS6c); 

the sensitive expansion of Alton Towers; 

measures to enhance its landscape character and heritage and to 

protect the designated nature conservation sites and the river valley 

as wildlife corridors. 

Any development should be of a high standard of design, demonstrate 

strong sustainable development principles and be sensitive to the heritage, 

landscape and biodiversity of the area. Complementary highway 

improvements of access routes and measures to support other alternative 

means of access will be required to serve any developments which generate 

significant demand for travel. 

A Masterplan will be produced to define the detailed extent of the corridor 

and guide the detailed planning and management of the corridor. 

Further development at AltonTowers shall be considered against guidance 

set out in a Supplementary Planning Document. This shall include, as 

appropriate, measures to improve the principal access routes to Alton 

Towers via the villages of Farley and Alton and the provision of the Alton 

– Denstone road link. 

2.3.3 Policy E3 Tourism and Cultural Development of the emerging Core 

Strategy gives support to clusters of attractions within the Churnet Valley Tourism 

Corridor and also to permanent new tourism accommodation within the corridor 

where there is a need which cannot be met in other ways. 

2.3.4 Policy SS6c identifies Bolton Copperworks as a major developed area where 

employment, residential, tourist-related retail and accommodation, leisure uses may 

be suitable. It establishes a requirement for any development to make provision for 

appropriate off-site highway improvements. The supporting text to the policy identifies 

that significant amounts of housing will not be permitted at the site and any housing 

permitted shall be limited to that required to cross-subsidise other uses. 

2.3.5 Policy SS5a identifies Cornhill as a major regeneration mixed use opportunity 

where employment, tourism and leisure uses may be suitable. It requires that any 

development shall make provision for a link between the A520 and A53 to the south 

of the town and links to the canal and Churnet Valley Railway. 

2.3.6 E1 New Employment Development seeks to ensure that new employment 

development supports and improves the local economy by providing for the needs 

and skills of existing and future local resident workforce and meeting identified 

business needs. It requires new business developments (B1) to be located in existing 

or proposed employment areas or in or on the edge of town centres. It requires new 

industrial developments (use class B2) be located in existing or proposed employment 


areas. Elsewhere only the expansion of existing business will be supported provided 

it does not have an unacceptable impact on the amenities, character or appearance 

of the area. New warehouses and distribution uses (use class B8) are required to 

locate in existing or proposed employment areas where there is ready access to 

roads which are higher in the road hierarchy and where sensitive areas are less likely 

to be affected by heavy goods vehicles. 

2.3.7 E2 Existing Employment Areas seeks to safeguard employment areas and 

premises for employment use that meet the criteria set out in the policy. This includes 

that they are well located to the main road and public transport network. 

Redevelopment for other uses will not be permitted unless they are identified in the 

Site Allocations DPD for redevelopment or it is demonstrated that they are not suitable 

or viable for continued employment use or substantial planning benefits would be 

achieved through redevelopment which would outweigh the loss of the site for 

employment use. Where redevelopment is proposed preference is to be given to 

mixed use redevelopment which retains an element of employment provision. The 

policy allows for the Council to negotiate for funding to support off-site employment 

provision. 

2.3.8 Other emerging Core Strategy policies include: 

SD1 Sustainable Use of Resources 

SD2 Renewable and Low-Carbon Energy 

SD3 Pollution and Flood Risk 

H1 New Housing Development 

H2 Affordable and Local Needs Housing 

H3 Gypsy and Traveller Sites 

TCR1 Development in the Town Centres 

TCR2 Retailing Outside Town Centres 

DC1 Design Considerations 

DC2 The Historic Environment 

DC3 Landscape and Settlement Setting 

C1 Creating Sustainable Communities 

C2 Sport, Recreation and Open Space 

C3 Green Infrastructure 

R1 Rural Diversification 

R2 Rural Housing 

NE1 Biodiversity and Geological Resources 

T1 Development and Sustainable Transport 

T2 Other Sustainable Transport Measures 

2.4 Other documents 


2.4.1 The Government’s approach to Tourism is contained in the Department for 

Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), March 2011, Government Tourism Policy. It 

recognises the existing importance of the UK’s visitor economy and identifies 

opportunities for the sector to grow. The domestic tourism industry is highlighted as 


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offering “good growth potential because we currently take significantly fewer 

‘staycation’ holidays than other European countries.” (22) It highlights the opportunities 

presented by forthcoming events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the 

London 2012 Olympic and Paraolympic Games. 

2.4.2 The document establishes a number of aims including a marketing campaign 

to attract visitors to the UK post 2012. This is to be funded by the government and 

private sector and the aim is to, “attract 4 million extra visitors to Britain over the next 

4 years. That equates to £2bn more spend in our economy, and 50,000 new jobs.” 

They also aim to “increase the proportion of UK residents who holiday in the UK to 

match those who would holiday abroad each year” and “Improve the sector’s 

productivity to become one of the top 5 most efficient and competitive visitor 

economies in the world.” (23) 

2.4.3 The aim is to reform Tourist Boards in order to address market failure and 

to broaden the tourism offer through creating alternative destinations. (24) 

2.4.4 The strategy identifies that the government will work with the Highways 

Agency to ensure that Brown Signs “can be as informative as possible to road users, 

whilst helping tourist destinations” as there has been criticism that they do not meet 

the needs of the Tourism Industry. (25) 

2.4.5 They aim to ensure the tourism industry is more productive through a number 

of measures including giving the industry and consumers responsibility for hotel 

ratings, increasing the number of apprenticeships and courses to help improve staff 

and management skills, help the industry prepare for changes in technology in order 

to make “every destination far easier and more accessible for visitors to navigate, in 

more languages, no matter where they are.” (26) This includes through iphone, android 

apps, websites and leaflets. 

2.4.6 The document highlights the opportunities the tourism industry provides to 

“rebalance the UK’s economy away from its historic over-reliance on finance, 

construction and the southeast.” (27) It also identifies the role of the tourism industry 

in job creation as it is particularly labour intensive. (28) 

2.4.7 The regeneration benefits of tourism are identified, “Tourism is a particularly 

effective vehicle for regenerating run-down neighbourhoods, using relatively small 

amounts of new investment to revitalise existing assets. In rural areas this means 

our beautiful coast and countryside; in urban neighbourhoods it could be disused 

waterfront, iconic buildings or revitalised cultural venues such as museums and art 

galleries too.” (29) 

22 DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sport) March 2011 Government Tourism Policy page7 

23 DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sport) March 2011 Government Tourism Policy page 7 

24 DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sport) March 2011 page 8 

25 DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sport) March 2011 Government Tourism Policy March 2011 page 9 







2.4.8 Of particular importance in developing the Churnet Valley Masterplan is that, 

“tourism provides something extra which few other industries can offer: an opportunity, 

to showcase our country’s great heritage and national assets in a way which doesn’t 

just delight our visitors but also improves our everyday quality of life. It’s not just that 

a good place to visit is usually a great place to live – although that’s often true – but 

that, if we live somewhere which is beautiful and impressive, and which the rest of 

the world wants to visit, it gives us something to be proud of too.” (30) 

2.4.9 Tourism is identified as already being an important sector of the economy 

which has “plenty of untapped potential too. It offers one of the fastest and most 

efficient ways to deliver rapid economic growth – Deloitte forecast that the UK visitor 

economy will be one of the country’s best performing sectors, with above average 

growth of 3.5% GVA per year until 2020.” (31) 

2.4.10 Improving the planning process is also identified as something to be 

addressed, “One of the most frequently-cited restrictions on our visitor economy is 

the difficulty of getting planning permission to develop or expand a tourism attraction. 

The current system is too complex, slow, expensive and hard to predict, which makes 

business investment harder and creates a permanent drag on our economic 

performance.” (32) However it is also identified that “it’s also imperative that we protect 

our communities from being blighted by inappropriate or ugly developments and to 

preserve important and nationally significant historic buildings and landscapes- which 

are a vital part of our tourism industry – too.” (33) Reference is made to the 

Government’s plans to make changes to the planning system including “Creating a 

presumption in favour of any application which satisfies the criteria of being a 

genuinely sustainable development.” (34) 

2.4.11 The document makes a commitment to DCMS and Visit England working 

with DCLG “to help Local Authorities develop local plans which allow tourism 

businesses to expand and flourish.” (35) 

2.4.12 The North Staffordshire Tourism Strategy 2004 – 2014 sets out a vision 

for what rural north Staffordshire will look like in 2014. It is focused around the themes 

of “family fun, outdoor activities, heritage and local food and drink.” (36) It identifies 

that, “The emphasis is on quality and higher-value offers and on encouraging overnight 

stays.” (37) As part of the vision it sees Leek as having “emerged as the gateway to 

the Peak District.” (38) For Cheadle the vision sees it, “emerging as a service centre 

for AltonTowers – providing accommodation, eating/drinking places, information etc.” 

(39) It also states that, “For the family market, AltonTowers and surrounding tourism 

businesses have re-invested in their product and strengthened their joint offers. 







36 North Staffordshire Tourism Strategy 2004-2014 Locum Destination Consulting page 5 





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Compared to ten years ago, a higher proportion of AltonTowers visitors stay overnight 

in Staffordshire, and visit other attractions within the county relating to wildlife and 

outdoor activities.” (40) 

2.4.13 The strategy sets out a strategic framework for Rural North Staffordshire 

with key principles that include: 

“Ensure that the Staffordshire Moorlands fully capitalises on the Peak District 

brand 

Prioritise sustainability and eco-development 

Make the most of AltonTowers 

Promote local food and drink through ‘Taste of Staffordshire’ and other 

initiatives” (41) 

2.4.14 The Government has recently published the Natural Environment White 

Paper, this sets out their vision for the natural environment. It states that, "The 

Government wants this to be the first generation to leave the natural environment of 

England in a better state than it inherited. To achieve so much means taking action 

across sectors ratehr than treating environmental concerns in isolation. It requires 

us all to put the value of nature at the heart of decision making - in Government, local 

communities and businesses. In this way we will improve the quality and increase 

the value of the natural environment across England." (42) 

2.4.15 Measures being put forward in the White Paper include Local Nature 

Partnerships (LNRs) these "will work at a strategic scale to improve the multiple 

benefits we receive from good management of the land." (43) 

2.4.16 Nature Improvement Areas (NIA) are to be created which will, "enhance 

and reconnect nature on a significant scale, where the opportunities and benefits 

justify actions. Local Partnerships will come together to form NIAs" (44) These are 

to be based on "local assessment of opportunities for restoring and connecting nature 

on a significant scale." 

2.4.17 The document also identifies reforms that are to be made to the planning 

system and that the Government wants the planning system to contribute to their 

aim of "no net loss of biodiversity." (45) This includes biodiversity offsetting, pilot areas 

are to be established where developers will be offered the opportunity by local 

authorities of delivering the planning policy requirements for biodiversity through 

offsetting. Advice and support is to be provided to these pilot areas by Natural 

England. 


41 North Staffordshire Tourism Strategy 2004-2014 Locum Destination Consulting 

42 Natural Environment White Paper (2011) paragraph 2 

43 Natural Environment White Paper (2011) page 19 




2.4.18 Other objectives include 'growing a green economy', reconnecting people 

and nature including creating a new designation 'Local Green Areas' identifying that 

this will enable people to protect green areas that are important to them. Green 

Infrastructure Partnerships are also to be created by the Government. Protecting 

and improving woodland and forests is also highlight as an aim as well as supporting 

diverse and living landscapes, planning for low carbon infrastructure, safeguarding 

our soils, protecting peat, restoring nature in rivers and water bodies, restoring nature 

in towns, cities and villages. The document also identifies the importance of green 

infrastructure and the importance of having priorities for the enhancement of green 

corridors and of access to the countryside. (46) 

2.4.19 Natural Environment White Paper identifies that, " Tourism must develop 

in a way that is flexible and responsive to the environment, respecting the needs of 

people who live and work locally. This approach is enshrined in the action plans that 

Visit England is developing to support its Strategic Framework for Tourism 

2010-20." (47) 

It identifies that "Visit England will act as a source of best practice, 

identifying and sharing advice with destination management organisations and other 

bodies in the tourism industry that want to develop payback schemes." (48) 

2.5 Planning History 

2.5.1 There have been a number of recent planning approvals for tourism and 

business related development in the Churnet Valley. 

2.5.2 In the northern part of the Churnet Valley recent planning history has included 

the change of use of the Earl of Macclesfield Boathouse at RudyardLake to a public 

exhibition and museum which was approved in late 2007. It is now complete and 

open to the public. Approval was granted for the installation of an underground 

childrens crawling tunnel at The Dam Head, Lake Road, Rudyard, in August 2010. 

Planning permission was granted for a new access at Coombes Valley Nature 

Reserve, Bradnop in late 2009. Other planning consents have involved the conversion 

of outbuildings to holiday lets. 

2.5.3 In Cheddleton, planning permission was granted, in late 2008, for the erection 

of 6 timber chalets for tourist accommodation on land at Churnet Grange,Station 

Road and building work has now commenced. Planning consent was also granted, 

in late 2008, for the conversion of a redundant milking parlour/ barn to two holiday 

lets and swimming pool at Ballington Grange Farm. In 2009, planning approval was 

granted for the reconstruction of Whitebridge Crossing Cottage for use as a shop 

and café at Cheddleton Station which involves the reconstruction of a listed building 

from Stone. Recent major applications for business development in this part of the 

Churnet Valley have included approval for development of an energy resource centre 

at J Pointon and Sons which includes development of community recreation facilities, 

new access road and conversion of a listed building to a first responder base. 

46 Natural Environment White Paper (2011) 





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2.5.4 In the Kingsley and Kingsley Holt area there have been a few planning 

approvals for conversion of redundant buildings to holiday lets. At Consall Hall, 

planning consent was granted in March 2008 for change of use of buildings to tea/ 

function room and to open the gardens to the public including for weddings. 

2.5.5 In Oakamoor, there was an application to regularise the existing operation 

at The Star Caravan and Camping Site, Star Bank, Oakamoor. The application was 

approved in October 2010 for the use of land for touring caravans, tents and 

motorhomes for the operating season 1 st 

March to 8 th 

November each year. In 2011, 

planning approval was granted for 51 additional hardstandings, extension to the 

access road, new car park, new site managers compound pitch and extension of the 

opening season. 

2.5.6 In Alton and Farley, recent planning approvals have included new rides at 

Alton Towers. In 2006, planning consent was granted for the construction of an 

adventure golf attraction. In the same year planning approval was granted for 

extension to hotel and car parking, and an application for extension of time period 

is currently pending consideration. A new boat ride was approved in 2007. In 2010, 

planning approval was granted to rebuild the sky ride building. A replacement 

rollercoaster and station buildings was approved in 2009. 

2.5.7 Planning permission was granted for the change of use of The Lord 

Shrewsbury from a hotel to youth retreat centre in early 2010. There have also been 

a few planning approvals to provide small scale holiday accommodation including 

change of use of 3 agricultural outbuildings to holiday accommodation and associated 

car parking at Crumpwood Farm, New Road, Alton which was granted consent in 

2008. Another example is planning approval having been granted in 2010 for change 

of use of a garage and store to holiday accommodation at Trough Ivy House, Hay 

Lane, Farley. Approximately 4 miles to the south west of Alton Towers at Quarry 

Walk Caravan Park, Winnothdale planning permission was granted in August 2008 

for the replacement of 20 touring pitches with 20 log cabins. 

Please note that the above list is not exhaustive and is only intended to provide 

a flavour of the types of planning applications which have been approved in 

recent years in the Churnet Valley. 


3 Historical Context 

3.0.1 The Churnet Valley 

has a rich industrial heritage 

which is still very much in 

evidence today. This legacy 

includes the Caldon Canal, 

Churnet Valley Railway, lime 

kilns, tramways, watermills 

and flint mill. A number of 

projects have been 

undertaking to promote, 

safeguard and restore some 

of these features. Examples 

include the re-opening of the 

Froghall basin in 2005. The 

legacy of Thomas Bolton’s 

is also evident in Oakamoor 

where a former factory site 

Picture 3.1 Canal Basin at Froghall 

has been returned to nature and is used for recreation and provides parking for 

leisure users. There are interpretation boards explaining the sites industrial past. 

Lime Kilns at Consall and Froghall Wharf have been preserved and interpretation 

boards exist explaining their significance. 

Picture 3.2 Former Thomas Bolton Site at Oakamoor 



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3.0.2 Staffordshire County 

Council has produced a 

Historic Environment 

Character Assessment for 

Staffordshire Moorlands 

which identifies that "The 

earliest evidence for 

industrial activity along the 

Churnet Valley dates to the 

medieval period where 

documentary sources refer 

to iron working prior to the 

early 13 th 

century. This 

included the site of a 

bloomery which was 

archaeologically excavated 

at East Wall in 2004. 

Several gentry families and 

four Staffordshire 

monasteries including 

Dieulacres Abbey, located 

to the north of Leek, were 

involved in this early 

industrial activity. The 

industrialisation of the valley 

accelerated from the late 16 th 

and into the 17 th 

century. 

Picture 3.3 Consall Lime Kilns 

Iron working in this period 

was heavily reliant on 

Picture 3.4 Photograph of Cheddleton Flint Mill 

woodland to fuel the 

industry. There is also evidence for ironstone and coal mining within this landscape. 

During the 19 th 

century some of the watermills of the valley were adapted to grinding 

flint for the pottery industry; of particular note are the Grade II* Listed buildings 

associated with the Cheddleton Flint Mill now operated as a Museum (cf. Cheddleton 

project area)." (49) 

49 Staffordshire County Council (2010) Staffordshire Moorlands Historic Environment Character Assessment 


3.0.3 The Caldon Canal was 

created in 1779 to transport 

limestone from quarries at 

Cauldon Low to the Potteries 

and later a branch was created 

connecting the Canal to 

Leek. (50) The Caldon Canal 

runs from Stoke to Froghall with 

a stretch of the River Churnet, 

north of Consall Forge having 

been canalised. The River 

Churnet in Leek was used to 

feed water to industry including 

the textile industry. 

Picture 3.5 Caldon Canal and Towpath 

3.0.4 In 1811 the Uttoxeter 

Canal was created which 

connected the Caldon Canal 

at Froghall to Uttoxeter. (51) 

The Churnet Valley Railway 

line opened in 1849 and ran 

to Uttoxeter from North Rode 

(Macclesfield) with parts of 

the Uttoxeter Canal having 

been filled in to lay the 

railway bed on. Stations in 

the Churnet Valley included 

Cheddleton, Froghall, 

Oakamoor and Alton. (52) 

Picture 3.6 Churnet Valley Railway and Caldon Canal 3.0.5 There are six 

conservation areas within or 

in close proximity to the area that will require consideration as part of the Churnet 

Valley Masterplan. These include Horton, Leek, Caldon Canal, Ipstones, Alton and 

Farley and Cheadle. Conservation areas are defined as areas of special architectural 

or historic interest. Conservation Area Appraisals have been or are in the process 

of being prepared for each of these areas which identify their character and special 

interest. Conservation Management Plans identify how the Council will seek to 

manage and protect the character and special interest of particular conservation 

areas. 

50 Source Waterscape Website accessed 2010 

51 Source CUCT Website accessed 2010 

52 Churnet Valley Railway Website accessed 2010 



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Map 3.1 Conservation Areas in the Churnet Valley (North) 


Map 3.2 Conservation Areas in the Churnet Valley (South) 

3.0.6 There are numerous listed buildings and structures in the Churnet Valley. 

There are a number of key buildings and features of historic interest within the area 

some of which are currently underused or vacant. In Leek, Big Mill occupies a 

prominent position on the Macclesfield Road and London Mill on the Ashbourne 

Road. Cotton College comprises of a number of vacant listed structures. At Froghall, 

on the Bolton Copperworks site, there is a vacant listed farmstead. There are a 

number of listed buildings and structures at Alton Towers including Bunburry Hill fort 

which is a scheduled ancient monument and there is also a grade I registered park 

and garden. 

3.0.7 In 2004, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council commissioned an 

archaeological survey of four tramways which connected the quarries at Caldon Low 

to the Caldon Canal at Froghall Basin. (53) 

4 Community 


4.0.1 There are a number of settlements in, or in close proximity of the Churnet 

Valley including Alton, Blackshaw Moor, Cheddleton, Consall, Cotton, Foxt, Froghall, 

Horton, Ipstones, Kingsley, Kingsley Holt, Meerbrook, Oakamoor, Rudyard, Rushton 

Spencer, Tittesworth, Whiston and the towns of Leek and Cheadle. These range in 

size from very small with limited or no services and facilities such as Consall and 

53 Mike Coxah and Lynne Gardner (2004) Report on the Archaeological Survey of the Caldon Railway Froghall Basin to 

Hoften's Cross Staffordshire. 


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Cotton to large villages including Cheddleton and Alton which have a range of services 

and facilities. The population of these villages ranges from Consall with a population 

of 60 to Cheddleton at 3066. (54) An assessment has been undertaken of the population, 

services and facilities of the villages in the Staffordshire Moorlands to inform the 

production of the Core Strategy. The key information relevant to the Churnet Valley 

Masterplan is summarised below. The following settlements have been identified as 

they lie along the tourism corridor or in close proximity of it. 

Cheddleton has a range of services including a dentist, primary school, village 

hall, post office, church, play facilities, library (including mobile), general store 

and public houses. It has a village population of 3066. 

Alton has a range of service and facilities including a GP surgery, village hall, 

post office, church, play facilities, library (including mobile), general store and 

public houses. It has a village population of 947. 

Ipstones has a population of 834. There is a village hall, post office, church, 

play facilities, library (including mobile), general store, GP surgery and public 

house. 

Kingsley has a village hall, self serve Post Office which runs from the village 

hall, church, play facilities, library (including mobile) and public house. It has a 

population of 886. 

Cotton has a population of 375 and has a primary school, church, play facilities, 

library (including mobile) and public house. 

Foxt has a village hall, church, play facilities, library (including mobile) and public 

house. Its population is 160. 

Froghall’s population is 110 and it is served by the mobile library and public 

house. 

Leekbrook has a population of 255. It has play facilities, a general store and 

public house. 

Longsdon has a village hall, church, library (including mobile), and public house. 

Its population is 475. 

Oakamoor has a village population of 375. It has a primary school, village hall, 

post office, church, play facilities, library (including mobile) and public house. 

Rudyard has a primary school, village hall, church, play facilities and public 

house. The village population is 300. 

54 Staffordshire Moorlands Service and Facilities Table (2011) 


Whiston village has a population of 210. It has a village hall, church, play 

facilities, library (including mobile) and public house. 

Consall is served by the mobile library. It has a population of 60. 

4.0.2 Of these villages, Alton, Cheddleton, Ipstones and Kingsley are identified as 

larger villages in the emerging Core Strategy. Thee larger villages are identified as 

having an important role to play in terms of serving and supporting their immediate 

surrounding rural areas and smaller villages. Policy SS6a of the emerging Core 

Strategy recognises that it is important to sustain and promote the larger villages 

as service centres and for them to meet the bulk of the local housing needs of the 

rural area whilst maintaining the character of these villages and avoiding over 

development. 

4.0.3 The other villages in the Churnet Valley are identified as smaller villages in 

the Core Strategy and have a more limited role as service centres. Policy SS6b 

states that “these settlements shall provide only for appropriate development which 

enhances community vitality or meets a local social or economic need for its 

hinterland.” (55) 

4.0.4 In recent years some of these villages have seen a loss in community 

facilities. In 2005, St Mildreds Church of England School in Whiston closed. In early 

2008, planning approval was granted for its conversion to a dwelling. Within the last 

10 years the Post Office in Kingsley has been redeveloped for residential use. 

However, the Post Office function runs from the village hall on two afternoons each 

week. The shop/ Post Office in Kingsley Holt has closed and the shop floorspace 

has been subject to a change of use to a form a domestic lounge. In Kingsley, the 

Plough Inn on the High Street closed, and has subsequently been demolished, with 

8 dwellings having been constructed on the site. The former Poachers Tavern, 

Rudyard Road, Rudyard has been converted into 6 apartments, building work was 

completed in 2006. 

4.0.5 However, some new community services and facilities have been provided 

in recent years including a health centre in Alton. 

4.0.6 In the rural areas of Staffordshire Moorlands (i.e. excluding the parishes of 

Leek, Cheadle and Biddulph) there have been 485 dwellings gross (480 net) 

completed in the last 5 years (April 2006 to end of March 2011). Of these 302 

dwellings (gross) where on large sites of 10 or more dwellings with the largest two 

schemes being St Edwards Park, Cheddleton and Tean Hall Mill, Upper Tean. Of 

the completions on small windfall sites in the last 5 years approximately 16% have 

involved the conversion of barns to dwellings. Picture 4.1 shows an example of recent 

residential development in the area (Churnet Valley Road, Kingsley Holt which 

involved the demolition of a bungalow and erection of three dwellings). 

55 Core Strategy Submission Version, May 2009 



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Picture 4.1 Recent Residential Development in Kingsley Holt 

4.0.7 There is a Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan housing allocation in Kingsley 

Holt (Shawe Park Road) which has not been developed. There is also the remainder 

of a housing allocation at Brookfields Road, Ipstones. 

Picture 4.2 Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan Housing 

Allocation at Shawe Park Lane, Kingsley Holt 

4.0.8 Examples of recent planning approvals for residential development include 

the Alverton Hotel, Alton, which was granted approval for 16 two bedroom starter 

homes in 2010, 6 of which are to be affordable dwellings and Marsh Villa, Rushton 

Spencer, which was granted consent for 6 affordable houses in 2011, the applicant 

was the Dane Housing Group. 


4.0.9 The Council is undertaking a series of events for villages called ‘Community 

Conversations’ which will inform the preparation of the Site Allocations DPD. The 

first round took place in summer 2011 focusing on the villages in the Churnet Valley 

in order that the outcome of these events could inform the preparation of the Churnet 

Valley Masterplan. The events are aimed at engaging with the local community to 

understand what they value in their village and how the village could change in the 

future. Further information on the Community Conversations and feedback of the 

first round is available on the Council's website: 

http://staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/communityconversations 


Map 4.1 Parishes within and in close proximity of the Churnet 

Valley 

4.0.10 In terms of current population trends in the Staffordshire Moorlands, 

Staffordshire Observatory (2011) 'Staffordshire Moorlands District State of 

Staffordshire Profile 2011', highlights that “There are approximately 18,900 people 

aged 65 and over in Staffordshire Moorlands, which constitutes 9.8% of the population 

(Source: 2009 Mid-year Population Estimates, Office for National Statistics). It is 


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projected that by 2033 there will be 32,400 residents over the age of 65 in the District. 

Additionally, the number of residents aged 85 or over is expected to almost triple, 

from 2,300 in 2008, to 6,800 residents by 2033. An increase in the retirement age 

population will have various implications for the future of the District, most significantly 

in terms of health and social care provision.” (56) 

4.0.11 According to Hometrack data (May, 2011), the average house price in the 

Staffordshire Moorlands is £191,100. The average price of a 1 bedroom flat is 

£90,000, a 2 bedroom flat £95,000, a 2 bedroom house £128,500 and a 4 bedroom 

house £266,600. (57) The house price to earning ratio for the Staffordshire Moorlands 

is 6.1:1 (i.e. 6.1 times annual household income. (58) The cost of buying an average 

2 bedroom property in the Staffordshire Moorlands with an 85% mortgage is currently 

£113 per week assuming a 3.51% mortgage rate. (59) The cost of renting an average 

2 bed property in Staffordshire Moorlands is £103 per week. The gross weekly rent 

for a 2 bedroom property rented from a Housing Association is £69 per week. (60) 

Evidence from Hometrack, which is based on 3 times income, indicates that over 

42% are priced out of buying terraced houses in the District. (61) 

5 Economy 

5.0.1 The Core Strategy highlights that jobs within the District are amongst the 

lowest paid in Staffordshire with an average weekly workplace earning of £424.20 

per person in 2010 compared to a regional average of £467.50. The average weekly 

earnings of residents in the District in 2010 of £492.50 was higher than the regional 

of £469.20 which is described as being indicative of the high out-commuting levels 

to better paid jobs outside the District with nearly 50% of the working population of 

Staffordshire Moorlands working outside the district. 

5.0.2 Alton Towers Resort, located in the south east of the District, is a national 

visitor attraction, playing an important role in the District’s economy. Other businesses 

in the Churnet Valley include industrial businesses at Leekbrook and Churnetside 

Business Park at Cheddleton, John Pointon and Sons at Cheddleton, an animal 

rendering plant which has recently been granted planning permission for an energy 

resource centre, and Thomas Bolton at Froghall. In Leek, Britannia is a major 

business and in Cheadle JCB Excavators is a major employer. 

5.0.3 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) draws on information 

contained in the Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Impact Assessment 2009, 

conducted by The Research Solution in 2010, highlighting that: 

"Tourism generated £158m of expenditure directly to the local economy in 

2009 

56 Staffordshire Observatory 2011 Staffordshire Moorlands District State of Staffordshire Profile 2011 page 14 

57 Hometrack May 2011 






That this expenditure (plus indirect and induced multipliers) supports 3,495 jobs. 

In terms of the direct expenditure, there were 2048 FTEs supported by tourism 

spend - this equated to 2,995 actual jobs 

There were an estimated 3.35m trips to the Staffordshire Moorlands in 2009. 

93% of these are estimated to be day trips 

There were an estimated 239,500 overnight trips to the Staffordshire Moorlands 

in 2009 - 70% of these were in commercial accommodation and 30% staying 

with friends and relatives. These trips accounted for 819,400 nights." 

5.0.4 As highlighted above tourism plays an important role in the economy of the 

area, with Alton Towers Resort being by far the most significant visitor attraction, a 

national attraction. The bulk of day trips and tourism employment is associated with 

Alton Towers Resort. There are many other smaller scale visitor attractions in the 

area including the Churnet Valley Railway running from Leekbrook to north of 

Oakamoor with three stations on the route, Cheddleton, Consall and Kingsley & 

Froghall Station. The railway has seen significant investment in the last 10 years. 

5.0.5 The Caldon Canal, as well as providing a navigable route through the valley 

by boat from Stoke to Froghall, also provides pedestrian and informal cycle access 

on the canal towpath and includes the attractions of Froghall Wharf and Froghall 

Basin. 

5.0.6 Other attractions include Kingsley Bird & Falconry Centre which is close to 

Kingsley and Froghall and Blackbrook Zoological Park which is off the A523 

approximately 3 miles north east of Ipstones. 

5.0.7 There is a significant amount of self-catering accommodation in the Churnet 

Valley area, examples include The Ramshorn Estate near Oakamoor and Foxtwood 

Holiday Cottages, Froghall. There are also a significant number of bed and breakfasts 

and guest houses in the area however hotels are notably lacking aside from the 

hotels at Alton Towers Resort. There a number of caravan parks including the Star 

Caravan Park, Oakamoor; Glencote Caravan Park, Cheddleton; Rudyard Vale 

Caravan Park, Rudyard; Quarry Walk Camping and Caravaning site near Cheadle; 

Blackshaw Moor Caravan Club site and Blackshaw Grange Camping and Caravaning 

site, Blackshaw Moor. The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies 

that "Of staying trips (not nights) in commercial accommodation, is is estimated: 

51% were in hotels (85,600 visits) 

18% in self catering (30,900 visits) 

24% touring caravan/ tents (41, 300 visits) 

7% in 'other" (62) 

5.0.8 There are also tea rooms, restaurants and public houses within the area. 

There are food and drink manufactures and suppliers operating in the area such as 

Peakstones Rock Brewery based in Alton, Kerrygold in Leek and Taste of the 

Moorlands based in Cheddleton. 

62 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) TEAM 



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5.0.9 The Employment Land Study (2006) and Employment Land Study Review 

(2008) identifies that the employment in the district has grown at 0.5% per annum 

over the period 1998-2006. This was below national growth but in line with the regional 

employment. Public administration, education and health sector accounted form the 

highest proportion of the total employment in the District (24.7% of the total level). 

The other key sectors of employment are the distribution, hotels and restaurants 

sector (22.8% of the total), and manufacturing sector (19.1% of the total). (63) The 

Employment Land Study Review (2008), identifies that over the period 1998-2006 

the distribution, hotels and restaurants sector has "grown strongly, growing on average 

by 1.6% per annum." (64) Also, "The updated review also examined sectors that have 

been the focus of economic development strategy including Creative Industries, 

Tourism & Leisure and Healthcare. The district was found to have no real specialism 

in any of these except Tourism & Leisure; however, this specialism to a degree 

represents the presence of Alton Towers." (65) 

5.0.10 According to 2001 Census data, manufacturing is the most significant 

industry of employment in the Churnet Valley followed by wholesale and retail trade; 

financial, real estate and business activity; health and social work. However this 

information is some ten years old, more recent data used by The Staffordshire 

Observatory (2011) has identified that, "The economic recession has undoubtedly 

had an impact on Staffordshire Moorlands District. The number of employees in the 

District has decreased as the nature of industry has diversified, with the largest 

employment sectors being 'public administration, education and health' and 

'distribution, hotels and restaurants' catering for almost half of all employees. The 

average household income in Staffordshire Moorlands is lower than the national and 

county averages, but higher than the regional average." (66) 

5.0.11 The Staffordshire Observatory (2011) highlight that, "Traditionally, the most 

important industry in Staffordshire Moorlands has been agriculture and farming. 

However the collapse of the farming industry in recent years has seen it's importance 

decline. Staffordshire Moorlands is home to one of the UK's largest theme parks, 

Alton Towers, Leek accommodates the Britannia Building Society, and Cheadle is 

home to JCB Excavators Ltd. Almost 50% of the working age population work outside 

the district." (67) 

5.0.12 Interestingly, the Staffordshire Observatory (2011) report highlights that, 

Staffordshire Moorlands has also seen a shift in the nature of employment, where in 

2005-06 the proportion of employees self employed within the District was 16%, by 

2009-10 this had increased to 21% (source Annual Population Survey - Workplace 

Analysis: NOMIS), particularly within the distribution, hotels and restaurants sector. 

This is a trend replicated across the majority of Staffordshire Moorlands where self 

employed numbers have increased, supporting the anecdotal evidence that 

entrepreneurial behaviours have increased during the economic recession." (68) 

63 Staffordshire Moorlands Employment Land Study Review (2008) Atkins page 39 



66 Staffordshire Observatory (2011) Staffordshire Moorlands District State of Staffordshire Profile 2011 page 3 

67 Staffordshire Observatory (2011) Staffordshire Moorlands District State of Staffordshire Profile 2011 pages 24 and 25 

68 Staffordshire Observatory 2011 Staffordshire Moorlands Staffordshire Profile 2011 page 25 


5.0.13 In the Churnet Valley (excluding Leek and Cheadle wards) the most common 

distance travelled to work is 10km to less than 20km at 23.39%. Working mainly at 

or from home is very significant in this part of the district at 18.29%, the second most 

common distance travelled, followed by 5km to less than 10km at 17.93%. (69) 

6 Landscape 

6.0.1 Staffordshire County Council produced Supplementary Planning Guidance 

(SPG) ‘Planning for Landscape Change' to the Structure Plan and the survey work 

carried out to produce this SPG has informed the Staffordshire Moorlands Landscape 

and Settlement Character Assessment (2008) and subsequent detailed assessment 

of the Churnet Valley contained in the Churnet Valley Landscape Character 

Assessment (2011). The landscape types identified in the SPG for Staffordshire 

Moorlands were considered to still be applicable when undertaking these character 

assessments. The landscape character types that are found within the Churnet 

Valley study area are: 

Dissected sandstone cloughs and valleys 

Dissected sandstone highland fringe 

Dissected sandstone uplands 

Ancient slope and valley farmlands 

Settled Plateau Farmlands 

Gritstone Highland Fringe 

6.0.2 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Area (LCA) describes the landscape 

as: 

"Churnet Valley is characterised by deeply incised, generally wooded valleys 

associated with the River Churnet and its tributaries. Outside of the valleys the land 

becomes a more gentle rolling landscape, with smaller valley features, and a more 

open, pastoral nature. Fields are mostly bounded by hedges, with dry stone walls 

associated with dwellings. The proximity to upland and gritstone landscapes changes 

the nature of the land to less intimate, with more ridgelines, and field boundaries are 

interspersed with dry stone walls. Views are generally experienced from higher 

ground. More enclosed views are experienced from within the Cloughs and valleys. 

Remnant Historic Parkland is located throughout the study area creating a strong 

character to the area. The Caldon Canal,Churnet Valley Railway with disused railway 

lines, Rudyard and Tittesworth Reservoirs are distinct man made interventions of 

high value within the landscape." 

(70) 


6.0.3 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) identifies a 

number of character type sub areas. These are shown on maps 6.1 and 6.2. 

69 Source 2001 Census 

70 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011)Wardell Armstrong paragraph 4.01 


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Map 6.1 Landscape Character Type Sub Areas in the Churnet Valley (North) 

Map 6.2 Landscape Character Type Sub Areas in the Churnet Valley (South) 



6.0.4 The Churnet Valley LCA identifies key characteristics and main features for 

each landscape character type sub area. For each area key planning and 

management issues/ future pressures are identified as well as a set of landscape 

planning guidelines and land management guidelines. The study identifies features 

with potential for tourism/ recreation. 

6.0.5 The Churnet Valley LCA identifies a number of main issues which are 

impacting on landscape character within the Churnet Valley study area including: 

"Replacement of hedgerows and dry stone walls by stock proof fencing 

Overgrazing and horsiculture 

Erosion and loss of parkland landscapes 

Loss of tree cover and lack of woodland management 

Pressures associated with tourist hotspots 

Erosion of canal infrastructure 

‘Urbanisation’ of rural villages and isolated dwellings 

Urban fringe impacts associated with Leek 

Development which does not reflect local vernacular 

Urban style highway improvements" (71) 

6.0.6 The study identifies that in general within the Churnet Valley planning 

guidelines are needed to: 

"Encourage retention and maintenance of typical field boundaries 

Protect small scale landscapes and squatter enclosures from inappropriate 

development 

Require historic landscape appraisals to protect heritage landscapes & inform 

development 

Identify and protect key views and viewpoint opportunities 

Prepare design guides and advice for tourism and recreation accommodation 

Encourage long distance horse riding accommodation along Sabrina Way 

Bridleway 

Provide advice on the provision of good quality signage and interpretation" (72) 

6.0.7 The study states that, “Planning control and guidance alone cannot achieve 

the reinforcement and enhancement needed to maintain and improve the landscape 

character of the Churnet Valley. Active land management is also required. Land 

management guidelines need to include: 

Encourage the management and reinforcement of ancient/semi natural woodland 

Encourage field boundary restoration and management through good practice 

Provide good practice guides to counteract the adverse impacts of horsiculture 

Support and encourage good pastoral and arable land management practice 

71 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) Wardell Armstrong paragraph 4.09 

72 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment 2011, paragraph 4.10 


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Encourage the improvement and management of water bodies including water 

quality 

Take action to control the spread of Himalayan Balsam along river and canal 

Protect and enhance the rights of way network and access to key facilities and 

open access land supported by the provision of signage and interpretation" (73) 

6.0.8 More detailed information from this study is discussed later on in this baseline 

report, within the key opportunity sites section. This Churnet Valley Landscape 

Character Assessment has also been informed by the Historic Environment Landscape 

Characterisation work undertaken by Staffordshire County Council to inform the 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Development Framework. 

7 Environment 

7.1 Overview 

7.1.1 The Churnet Valley is an area of high environmental quality. There are a 

significant number of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sites of Biological 

Interest (SBI), Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), ancient woodland, Regionally 

Important Geological Sites (RIGs), nature reserves and country parks within the 

area. Although there are no European designated sites (Special Protection Areas 

(SPAs) and/ or Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)) within the area there are 

several sites that are in close proximity and consideration will need to be had for 

these in the preparation of the Masterplan. 

73 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment 2011, paragraph 4.12 



Map 7.1 Biodiversity Sites in the Churnet Valley (North) 


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Map 7.2 Biodiversity Sites in the Chunet Valley (South) 

7.2 European Designated Sites 

7.2.1 Although there are no European designated sites within the area there are 

a number beyond the planning authority boundary within the Peak District National 

Park. These include the South Pennine Moors SAC which is to the north east, the 

Peak District Moors SPA which is also to the north east, and the Peak District Dales 

SAC located to the east. Also, Cannock Chase SAC lies in the south of the county. 

7.2.2 There is a requirement to undertaken an Appropriate Assessment of plans 

that could affect SPAs and SCAs. It is a requirement of Article 6 (3) and (4) of the 

European Habitats Directive that an Appropriate Assessment of plans that could 

affect SPAs and SACs is undertaken. The European Court of Justice ruling in 

October 2005 that land-use plans should be subject to an Appropriate Assessment 

of their implications for European sites. In March 2006, a letter from the Office of 

the Deputy Prime Minister communicated this ruling to Chief Planning Officers. 

7.2.3 An Appropriate Assessment of the Core Strategy was undertaken in May 

2008. This concluded that the policies within the Core Strategy “generally provide 

a positive framework for conservation and enhancement of the District’s biodiversity, 

including Natura 2000 sites.” (74) SPAs and SACs collectively form the Natura 2000 

network. The Appropriate Assessment identified that tourism development and 

74 Staffordshire Moorlands District Council Core Strategy Appropriate Assessment (2008) 


enewable energy schemes (particularly wind turbines) could “either on their own 

within the Staffordshire Moorlands District or cumulatively (in-combination) with similar 

developments within adjacent local authorities, potentially impact on the integrity of 

the SPA and SAC sites identified in the Appropriate Assessment. There is insufficient 

detail on plans and schemes coming forward to make it possible to be specific about 

possible impacts and quantify them for either of these areas… Further assessment 

may be needed once specific proposals are put forward. The Core Strategy will have 

sufficiently robust policies (SS1, NE1) to safeguard against possible negative effects 

at this high strategic level.” (75) 

7.2.4 The assessment also identified that “Core Strategy policy SS6d identifies 

regeneration and economic growth opportunities on two specific sites: Anzio Camp 

on Blackshaw Moor and Froghall Copperworks. Redevelopment of the Anzio Camp 

site could create potential tensions between those draft Core Strategy policies which 

promote economic prosperity and those which aim to protect the European sites and 

conserve and enhance biodiversity. Whether the economic re-development of the 

type envisaged can be accommodated without causing significant adverse effects 

on the integrity of the SAC and SPA sites can only be determined when detailed 

masterplans are put forward and they in turn are subject to more detailed EIA and 

Appropriate Assessment. Some additional wording is recommended for Policy SS6d 

to sharpen the protection offered to the European and Ramsar sites.” (76) 

7.2.5 An update assessment was undertaken in 2009 to assess the Core Strategy 

Submission Version. In the preparation of the Masterplan consideration will need to 

be had for whether there is a requirement to undertake an Appropriate Assessment 

of the Churnet Valley Masterplan, and if so at what stages this work should be 

undertaken. There needs to be some degree of clarity of the plans approach to 

development and the scale of development before an assessment can be undertaken. 

7.3 Regional and Local Designations 

7.3.1 There are a significant number of sites which have been designated for the 

nature conservation value or geological importance in the Churnet Valley. 

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) 


There are seven Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in the Churnet Valley 

area which include Combes Valley SSSI; Churnet Valley SSSI which is an extensive 

area running along the valley floor and its sides; Froghall Meadow and Pasture which 

lies to the south of Froghall; Whiston Eaves SSSI which is adjacent to Moneystone 

Quarry; Bath Pasture SSSI which lies north west of Cotton; Dimmingsdale and The 

Ranger SSSI which comprises of several compartments and is located in the 

Threapwood and Dimingsdale area. To the east of Alton off Denstone Road (south 

of) lies Saltersford Lane Meadows SSSI. 




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There are a further five SSSIs in close proximity of the area including Thorncliffe 

Moor SSSI which is to the north east of Thorncliffe adjacent to the Peak District 

National Park boundary. Cauldon Railway Cutting SSSI, Rue Hill SSSI, Caldon 

Dales SSSI which are located in the Cauldon area. In the Ipstones Edge area lies 

Swithholes Wood and Black Heath SSSI. These are shown on maps 7.1 and 7.2. 

Sites of Biological Interest (SBI) 

There are a significant number of SBIs within or in close proximity of the area, shown 

on maps 7.1 and 7.2. Staffordshire Ecological Record holds detailed information on 

the surveys that have been undertaken for these sites and this information will be 

consulted as necessary in the preparation of the Masterplan. 

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Ancient Woodland 

Map 7.3 and 7.4 show that there is significant ancient woodland coverage in the 

Churnet Valley particularly in the central and southern parts of the tourism corridor. 



Map 7.3 Ancient Woodland in the Churnet Valley (North) 


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Map 7.4 Ancient Woodland in the Churnet Valley (South) 

Regionally Important Geological Sites 

Detailed descriptions of these are held by Staffordshire Ecological Record and as 

with SBIs, information for specific sites will be sought as necessary during the 

production of the Masterplan. Maps 7.1 and 7.2 show the locations of these sites 

within the Churnet Valley. A geo trail walk already exists for the lower Churnet and 

one of the project proposals of the Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership is 

to prepare a geo trail for the upper Churnet. Further details regarding the Churnet 

Valley Living Landscape Partnership including the aims of the partnership and 

proposed projects for the delivery phase are provided later on in this report. 

7.4 Nature Reserves and Country Parks 

7.4.1 There are a number of country parks and nature reserves within the area 

including Ladderedge Country Park managed by Staffordshire Moorlands District 

Council to the south west of Leek which includes fields and woodland, ponds, streams 

and marshes and footpath. Information can be found on the Council's website. (77) 

77 Staffordshire Moorlands District Council website www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk 


7.4.2 Deep Hayes Country Park is run by Staffordshire County Council and is to 

the south west of Longsdon and north west of Cheddleton. It includes a visitor centre 

and toilets, car park, meadows, pools and woods and footpaths. Information on 

opening times, waymarked trails and information on the history of the site is provided 

on Staffordshire County Council's website. (78) 

7.4.3 Coombes Valley is a Royal Society for Protection of Birds (RSPB) Reserve 

near Leek. Consall Nature Park near Wetley Rocks is run by Staffordshire County 

Council and includes a visitor centre, toilets and car park, footpaths and part of the 

area is a SSSI and therefore nature conservation is important in the area. There are 

marked footpaths which start from the visitor centre. Information is available on 

Staffordshire County Council's website. (79) Staffordshire County Council also have 

a visitor centre, car park and picnic area at Froghall Wharf and there are promoted 

routes running from here. (80) The RSPB have land in the Consall area which is 

accessible to the public. Further information about Coombes Valley is available on 

the RSPB website. (81) 

7.4.4 Hawksmoor Nature Reserve which is a woodland area and Toothill near to 

Alton are owned by the National Trust. Also, close to Alton is Dimmingsdale which 

is a woodland area in the valley with paths running through it including on the former 

carriage way of the Earl of Shrewsbury. There is a car park and adjacent to this is 

the Ramblers Retreat restaurant. The Forestry Commission's website contains 

details of the area and facilities that are available. (82) From the car park the former 

railway line which is now used as a greenway by walkers, cyclist and horse riders is 

easily accessible. 

7.4.5 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's Cotton Dell reserve situated along the river 

valley in the Oakamoor area comprises of grassland and ancient woodland within 

the reserve. There is no car parking at the reserve. There are unsurfaced paths 

within the reserve. Other examples of Staffordshire Wildlife Trust land which the 

public can access include Harston Wood which is near to Froghall Wharf to the north 

east and is accessible from a public footpath from the Staffordshire County Council 

car park at Froghall Wharf. They also have three parcels of land at Ipstones Edge. 

All of these are detailed on their website which provides information on availability 

of parking and directions to the reserves and maps of the reserves. (83) 

7.4.6 There are opportunities to improve linkages between these sites and other 

visitor attractions as both physical and promotional linkages between some of these 

are currently limited, or there is scope for further improvement. 

78 Staffordshire County Council website www.staffordshire.gov.uk 



81 RSPB website www.rspb.org.uk 

82 Forestry Commission website www.forestry.gov.uk 

83 Staffordshire Wildlife Trust website www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk 



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7.5 Biodiversity Opportunities Mapping 

7.5.1 The Staffordshire Moorlands Biodiversity Opportunity Mapping (2011) identifies 

a number of zones and a brief description of each of these is provided and a set of 

objectives for each of these zones. The zones are Limestone, Churnet Woodlands, 

Moorland/ Moorland Fringe, Farmland, Species-rich Farmland, Northern Churnet 

and Rudyard Woodlands. 

Map 7.5 Biodiversity Opportunity Zones in the Staffordshire 

Moorlands 

7.5.2 Objectives for the Limestone zone are: 

Primary habitat objective is the maintenance, restoration and expansion of 

species-rich grasslands, particularly calcareous grassland. 

Other objective is to increase connectivity of semi-natural habitats to create 

larger habitat complexes using priority habitats where possible. It identifies that 


key to achieving this objective are new hedgerows, field margins and woodland 

extension. (84) 

7.5.3 Objectives for the Churnet Woodlands zone are: 

Primary habitat objective within the area is the maintenance, restoration and 

expansion of native woodland. When considering the placement of new woodland 

consideration should be had for surrounding habitats and grasslands are identified 

in particular. (85) 

7.5.4 Objectives for the Moorland/ Moorland Fringe zone are: 

Primary habitat objective is the maintenance, restoration and expansion of the 

upland mosaic of upland heathland, blanket bog, purple moor-grass and rush 

pasture and lowland meadow. 

100% of the Staffordshire resource of Blanket Bog is located in this area. (86) 

7.5.5 Objectives for the Farmland zone: 

Primary objective is to reduce fragmentation of existing semi – natural habitats 

by linking sites through the creation of habitat corridors and networks using 

priority habitats where possible. Hedgerows, arable field margins and rivers are 

identified as priorities in achieving this. In order to diversify the area opportunities 

to create wetland, grassland and woodland mosaics need to be taken. 

Grasslands are identified as being particularly important especially Lowland 

Meadow and Coastal Floodplain Grazing Marsh. (87) 

7.5.6 Objectives for the Species-rich Farmland zone are: 

Primary objectives are the maintenance, restoration and expansion of species-rich 

grasslands, particularly Lowland Meadows and also Upland and Lowland 

Heathland. 

Other objectives include to increase connectivity of semi-natural habitats to 

create larger habitat complexes using priority habitats where appropriate. (88) 

7.5.7 Objectives for the Northern Churnet and Rudyard Woodlands zone are 

Maintain, enhance and expand the native woodland resource to reduce 

fragmentation of isolated woodland patches. The creation of native woodland 

needs to consider the presence of other habitats, in particular the presence of 

remnant heathland patches and small areas of species rich grassland. 

Increase the connectivity of semi-natural habitats in association with the woodland 

resource to create larger habitat mosaics of woodland, heathland and species 

84 Staffordshire Moorlands Biodiversity Opportunities Map (2011) 







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rich grassland. Maintain and expand remnant heathland patches within upland 

pasture. (89) 

7.6 Green Infrastructure Strategy 

7.6.1 A Green Infrastructure Strategy is being prepared for the Staffordshire 

Moorlands. The aim of the study is to: 

Enhance the natural and cultural features that are crucial to the local landscape 

Improve the quality and connectivity of the Green Infrastructure assets, 

encouraging walking and cycling 

Creating safe and welcoming environments for all including street trees, footpaths, 

parks and woodlands 

Ensuring that where appropriate there is a net gain in biodiversity through 

development proposals 

Improving waterways such as canals, lakes and rivers, whilst also reducing the 

level of flood risk 

Improve the quality and accessibility to sports facilities, and ultimately increase 

the level of participation 

8 Accessibility and Connectivity 

8.1 Overview 

8.1.1 An Accessibility and Connectivity Study has been undertaken by AECOM 

on behalf of the District Council to inform the production of the Masterplan. The 

overall purpose of the study was to: 

Assess the potential for improving the accessibility of the area and promoting 

sustainable forms of transport 

Identify opportunities for improving linkages between visitor attractions/ facilities 

and settlements including provision for pedestrians and cyclists and 

Consider the aspiration to develop the Churnet Valley as a sustainable tourism 

corridor 

8.1.2 An important element of this study was to look at how the area is currently 

serviced by transport provision locally and strategically. The following sections 

highlight the study findings as well as drawing on other available information. 

8.2 Highway 

8.2.1 The findings included that there are good road links to and from the area. 

The vast majority of visitors to the Churnet Valley arrive by car using the primary 

road network serving the area including the A50, A53, A523, A52 and A520. The 

study identifies that, “The towns of Cheadle and Leek are often the first point of entry 

for people visiting the area and these settlements represent and provide a point of 

89 Staffordshire Moorlands Biodiversity Opportunities Map (2011) Staffordshire Wildlife Trust 


eference or source of information from which the next part of a journey towards one 

of the many attractions nearby is made.” (90) 

It identifies that there is relatively poor 

access and signage from the strategic road network with the exception of Alton 

Towers. There is little or no provision for pedestrians and cyclists along the network. 

The road network within the Churnet Valley is identified as presenting a significant 

constraint for bus and coach use. Road access and availability of parking reinforces 

reliance on the car for access and movement. Signing of routes and attractions is 

sporadic and can cause confusion for motorists. The study identifies that roads within 

the Churnet Valley have limited capacity and are of a poor standard in places. (91) 

8.2.2 The study identifies the good road links from neighbouring conurbations as 

being a strength but there are a number of weaknesses identified associated with 

the highway network including that it has limited capacity and is of poor standard in 

places, roads to many of the attractions are unsuitable for buses and coaches and 

visitor traffic can cause congestion at peak times of the year. High levels of car 

ownership and car use in Staffordshire, which is set to increase, is identified as a 

threat. 

8.2.3 The study identifies that bus services are constrained to the main highway 

network meaning that access to the key attractions within the Churnet Valley is 

limited. Also, as highlighted above, many of the roads in the area are unsuitable for 

buses. Additionally, "Bus stops are often a significant distance from popular 

attractions and, combined with limited services and frequencies, this detracts from 

the viability of public transport as a travel option for visitors." (92) The document also 

highlights that bus infrastructure could be upgraded on parts of the network and that 

availability of bus information could be improved. This ties in with the issue raised 

of there not being an official website/ journey planing information for the area. 

Opportunities are identified to develop a marketing strategy for the Churnet Valley 

to include a website. The study also identifies that there are opportunities to introduce 

more bus services and increase the frequency of services in the Churnet Valley. (93) 

8.3 Walking 

8.3.1 There are a number of issues identified regarding this mode of transport. 

The Staffordshire Way runs parallel to the River Churnet. There are designated 

routes for specific attractions and most are served by car parks. The study highlights 

the lack of coherent, high quality routes permeating the valley and linking key 

attractions. It has also identifies that there is little integration between walking and 

other sustainable modes of travel (bus and cycle) and that there is a need for many 

routes to be upgraded to a higher standard or formalised for pedestrian use, 

particularly for those with impaired mobility. There are also barriers to pedestrian 

movement in the area including the canal, river and railway. Another issue highlighted 

is that linkages from existing settlements (Leek, Cheddleton, Cheadle etc) into the 

ChurnetValley are underdeveloped. The network of routes in the Valley (canal 

90 Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) AECOM page 12 






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towpath, byways and bridleways) are identified as strengths which could be formalised 

so to is the Staffordshire Way and Sabrina Way running through the Valley. The 

lack of coherent walking routes between attractions and throughout the Valley is 

identified as a weakness. (94) 

8.4 Cycling 

8.4.1 The study highlights that there is little or no designated cycle route in the 

Churnet Valley. Existing routes exist from Leek to Rudyard Lake and Oakamoor to 

Denstone both along the former route of the railway. The study identifies that the 

canal towpath is not currently suitable for cycle use along its full length. There is a 

lack of infrastructure and facilities for cycling including cycle hire, cycle parking and 

signage and information for cyclists is very limited such as signage and maps. The 

study identifies that the road network is not suitable for use by the majority of leisure 

cyclists. In parts of the area topography and permeability of the network is a constraint 

to cycling. The study identifies that the Churnet Valley "has great potential as a 

location to promote and encourage leisure cycling, but it does not currently posses 

the infrastructure or facilities to do so." (95) Opportunities to improve provision for 

cyclists through a number of measures are identified including: 

Introducing further cycle routes to provide a more comprehensive offer to visitors. 

The study highlights that settlements and key attractions could "provide hubs 

from which the leisure cyclist can access necessary equipment and facilities 

and explore out into the surrounding area." (96) The existing Rudyard Lake Trail 

(Leek to Rudyard) and the National Cycle Route 54 (Oakamoor to Denstone) 

are seen as good examples of what could be achieved. 

"scope to increase the marketing of cycling as a travel choice for visitors to the 

area. This could include cycle hire schemes (such as the Manifold Cycle Hire 

and Brown End Farm Cycle Hire which are currently in operation) for the entire 

Churnet Valley, enabling visitors to utilise routes within the area to reach several 

attractions increasing connectivity." (97) 

8.5 Horse Riding 

8.5.1 There are also bridleways in the area including the Sabrina Way long distance 

horse riding route which crosses the corridor in the Oakamoor area. Horse riding, 

as well as being a leisure activity, offers opportunities for the economy of the area 

in terms of associated businesses as well as opportunities for tourism through offering 

riding holidays. The greenway between Oakamoor and Denstone and in the Leek 

area are used by horse riders as well as walkers and cyclists. 

8.5.2 There is currently limited connectivity through the corridor for off road horse 

riding and consideration will need to be had for the appropriateness of making routes 

multi user. There are potential opportunities to improve and provide new routes in 






the Churnet Valley particularly through opportunities associated with the key 

opportunity sites such as Moneystone Quarry and Bolton Copperworks, Froghall. 

Staffordshire County Council as the highway authority is responsible for Public Rights 

of Way. The Definitive Map shows Public Rights of Way and is held by Staffordshire 

County Council. There are three types of Public Right of Way shown on the Definitive 

Map. These are Public Footpaths (right of passage is only for by foot), Public 

Bridleways (right of passage is on foot, bicycle or on horseback) and Byway Open 

to All Traffic (right of passage is on foot, bicycle, horseback or by motor vehicle). 

There is a fourth category which currently is not shown on the Definitive Map, 

Restricted Byway (right of passage is on foot, bicycle, horseback or on non-motorised 

vehicle). Different coloured arrows on way markings denote the different types of 

Public Right of Way. (98) 

8.6 Other Modes 

8.6.1 The Caldon Canal provides a means of movement through the corridor from 

Leek to Froghall for walkers, cyclist and waterway users (boats and canoeists). A 

number of visitor attractions lie along or in close proximity to the canal and its towpath, 

and the canal acts as a visitor attraction in itself. The study identifies that "signage 

and visitor information along the canal is limited to a small number of locations" (99) 

and that "the canal towpath needs to be upgraded to make it more suitable for walkers 

and cyclists." (100) 

8.6.2 The Churnet Valley Railway currently operates as a visitor attraction providing 

a route from Cheddleton Station in the north to the central part of the corridor at 

Froghall (Kingsley and Froghall Station). The study highlights that currently "the 

railway itself is the attraction, so the cost of travel and frequency of travel and 

frequency does not necessarily represent a viable alternative for travel in the area." 

(101) The study highlights that the Churnet Valley Railway "only operates at certain 

days and times of the year, parts of the line are not used, railway can act as a barrier 

to movement in the area, railway does not connect to all attractions in the area." 

(102) 

8.7 Opportunities to Improve Accessibility and Connectivity 

8.7.1 A number of potential measures are identified within the Accessibility and 

Connectivity Study and their potential to improve accessibility and connectivity within 

the Churnet Valley and to and from the Churnet Valley is rated and the contribution 

they would have towards sustainable tourism. Those identified as having the most 

potential and making a high contribution towards sustainability are: 

Introduce Park and Ride sites 

Provide bus access to all attractions 

98 Staffordshire County Council Public Rights of Way Guide page 6 

99 Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) AECOM page 15 






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Provide bus access to key opportunity sites 

Provide more crossing points over the canal for non-car modes 

Extend the CVR into Leek and on to Stoke 

Extend the CVR to Alton via Oakamoor 

Provide more crossing points over the rail lines for non-car modes 

Identify champions (individuals and/or organisations) to promote key projects 

and measures 

8.7.2 The Churnet Valley Landscape and Character Assessment identifies that 

landscape planning guidelines could also be considered to "encourage the use of 

Open Access Land, Public Rights of Way, and bridleways through increased access, 

circular walks, and appropriate signage and interpretation which demonstrates a 

chosen 'house style' for the Churnet Valley." (103) It highlights opportunities for, making 

better uses of Open Access Land and network of paths and rights of way for walking 

and cycling. The document also highlights that, "Consideration should be given to 

providing recreational opportunities along the Sabrina Way Bridleway for long distance 

horse riding accommodation with livery. This small scale form of development should 

be considered alongside all other landscape planning guidelines specific to this 

area." (104) Other more localised opportunities identified include the potential 

opportunity to use the dismantled tramway from Froghall to Cauldon Lowe which 

could provide a pedestrian or cycle links between Cauldon Lowe and the Churnet 

Valley. Also, the Old Carriage Ways through woodland associated with Alton Towers 

could provide links from Cheadle into the Churnet Valley. 

8.8 Relevant Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership Projects 

8.8.1 As part of the Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership (CVLLP) project, 

one of the planned delivery stage projects is 'Access for All - Connecting the Heritage 

- Cheddleton' which is identified for April 2014-2015. The objective of this project is 

to provide access for all through improving 1.2km of existing footpath from the Flint 

Mill museum to the Railway museum via the Caldon Canal. This will provide a healthy 

walk/ cycle route where heritage and conservation are enhanced and interpreted on 

route. The project is to be delivered by British Waterways in partnership with the 

Caldon Canal and Uttoxeter Canal Trust. Other project partners are identified as 

being The Steam Railway, The Flint Mill and local businesses. 

8.8.2 Another planned project is Promoted Route - Canal Towpath Access Project 

with the overall aim being to restore and enhance the arterial CVLLP access route. 

This seeks to improve the Caldon Canal towpath with parts of the towpath having 

been identified, in a condition report, as being in poor condition and in need of 

restoration. This work will create a hard walking/cycling surface and will include 

formalisation and improvement of access where possible. The works are programmed 

for 2012-2015 and are to be managed by British Waterways. 

103 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) Wardell Armstrong 



8.8.3 Other work includes investigating creating a route from Froghall Wharf to the 

station which is of relevance to the Bolton Copperworks masterplanning work that 

has been undertaken (see specific section 10.5 of this report for details on Bolton 

Copperworks). 

8.8.4 There is also a project proposed by the CVLLP to prepare an interpretation 

plan and improve signage and promotion of the area. 

9 Open space and recreation 

9.1 Current Open Space and Visual Open Space 


9.1.1 Maps 9.1 and 9.2 identify Open Space and Visual Open Space (VOS) in the 

Churnet Valley area. An Audit was undertaken of open space, sport and recreational 

facilities in March 2009 PMP. (105) The VOS shown on maps 9.1 and 9.2 is currently 

identified in the Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan. A review of VOS was undertaken 

by Wardell Armstrong in 2008 (106) this included a detailed assessment of sites and 

recommendations as to whether existing Local Plan sites should be retained and 

whether there are other areas which could potentially be designated as VOS. This 

information provides evidence to be considered in the production of the Site 

Allocations Development Plan Document but would also inform the Churnet Valley 

Masterplan. 

105 Staffordshire Moorlands Open Space, Sport and Recreation Facility Assessment, A Final Report (2009) PMP 

106 Staffordshire Moorlands Landscape and Settlement Character Assessment (2008) Wardell Armstrong 


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Map 9.1 Open Space and Visual Open Space (VOS) in the Churnet Valley (North) 


Map 9.2 Open Space and Visual Open Space (VOS) in the Churnet Valley (South) 

9.1.2 Large areas of open space identified on the maps include Oakamoor Park 

which lies to the south of Oakamoor (a former Thomas Boltons site) and is identified 

as amenity green space and to the south of this is Davies Worthington Sports Ground 

and the Mick Edwards Memorial Ground off Cheadle Road, Oakamoor. At St Edwards 

Park, Cheddleton the woodland off East Drive is identified as natural and semi natural 

open space. Examples of large areas of open space in Leek include Ladderedge 

Country Park, Birchall Playing Fields and Brough Park. Some of the other areas 

identified within the Churnet Valley particularly those within or on the edge of villages 

include school playing fields, churchyards, cemeteries and recreation areas. 

9.2 Future Open Space Requirements 


9.2.1 For the larger villages of Alton, Cheddleton, Ipstones and Kingsley a number 

of priorities for sport recreation and open space have been identified in the PPG 17 

Audit, Parks and Countryside Strategy (Cabinet Report 19/01/10) and, Sports and 

Physical Activity Strategy (Cabinet Report 1/12/10). 

9.2.2 For Alton this includes creating a network of green corridors linking natural 

open space with the wider countryside and key settlements. There is demand for at 

least 1 amenity space (at least 0.2ha) and Hurston’s Lane Playing Field needs 

improving. 

9.2.3 There is a requirement for a pocket park in Cheddleton. 


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9.2.4 In Ipstones there is demand for at least 1 amenity space (at least 0.2ha) and 

Ipstones Recreation Ground pitch needs improving. 

9.2.5 There is demand for at least 1 amenity space (at least 0.2ha) for Kingsley 

and Kingsley Recreation Ground pitch needs improving. 

9.3 Recreation 

9.3.1 There are significant opportunities for recreation in the Churnet Valley 

including walking, bouldering/ climbing, cycling, horse riding and boating. 

9.3.2 The Staffordshire Way runs through the area in following the route of the 

River Churnet for some of this. The Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) 

identifies that, "This route connects to the wider network of pathways, bridleways 

and designated walks and provides a good basis upon which to improve access to 

visitor attractions, as well as being a scenic attraction in its own right." (107) 

9.3.3 The canal towpath provides an opportunity for use for walking and cycling 

particularly along the corridor from Leek to Froghall and there are opportunities to 

improve this (see Chapter 8 Accessibility and Connectivity). As detailed earlier the 

CVLLP is proposing a project to improve the canal towpath. 

9.3.4 There are a number of greenways in the area which are used for walking, 

cycling and horse riding. The track beds of the former railway line from Leek to 

Rushton Spencer, is used by walkers and cyclists, on the route is the visitor attraction 

of Rudyard Lake and miniature railway. This greenway is utilised for the Rudyard 

Lake Trail connecting Leek to Rudyard Lake for walkers and cyclists. (108) A further 

greenway runs along the disused railway line from Oakamoor to Denstone and is 

utilised by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. 

9.3.5 The Sabrina Way runs through the Oakamoor area and provides a long 

distance route for horse riding and is promoted by the British Horse Society. 

9.3.6 The Churnet Valley Landscape and Character Assessment identifies that in 

the Alton and Oakamoor area (Character Sub Type 1a) there are opportunities for 

"making better use of Open Access Land and network of paths and rights of way for 

cycling" (109) and that the "Old Carriage Ways through woodland associated with Alton 

Towers could provide links from Cheadle into the Churnet Valley." (110) 


108 Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) AECOM 

109 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) Wardell Armstrong Section 1a Alton and Oakamoor 

110 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) Section 1a Alton and Oakamoor 



Map 9.3 Recreation Routes in the Churnet Valley (North) 


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Map 9.4 Recreation Routes in the Churnet Valley (South) 

10 Key opportunity sites 

10.1 Overview 

10.1.1 A number of key opportunity sites have been identified including Cornhill, 

Leek; Consall Hall Gardens; Bolton Copperworks, Froghall; Moneystone Quarry and 

Alton Towers. These are areas where there is pressure for change and therefore 

they are to be given further consideration in the preparation of the masterplan. 

10.2 Cornhill 

10.2.1 The Cornhill area of Leek is identified in the emerging Core Strategy as 

a major regeneration opportunity which may be suitable for employment, tourism 

and leisure uses. Any development is to make provision for a link between the A520 

and A53 to the south of the town and links to the canal and the Churnet Valley railway. 

10.2.2 The Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan includes an employment allocation 

of 3.7 hectares at Cornhill. Part of this site has planning consent (reference 

05/01302/FUL) for change of use of field to form additional car parking places at 

Britannia House which has been implemented. The area is located within the 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan Leek Town Development Boundary. It is adjacent 

to Birchall playing fields and Ladderedge Country Park. Land not within the area, 

but adjacent to it, to the south west, is within flood zone 2. The Staffordshire 



Moorlands Local Development Framework An Ecological Survey (2010) surveyed 

the broad areas being proposed for housing and employment development in the 

Core Strategy and identified that in the Cornhill area (Leek EM1) there is now a 

Biodiversity Alert Site where "development should be avoided on the site. If 

development is allowed, then adequate compensatory habitat should be provided 

nearby." (111) 

10.2.3 Cornhill is located in the northern part of the Churnet Valley tourism corridor 

and is a strategically important site on the edge of Leek and at the head of the Caldon 

Canal and the Leek-Stoke railway line. Potential opportunities exist for the area to 

act as the terminus for a reopened Leek-Stoke railway and to provide a marina for 

the Caldon Canal. 

Picture 10.1 Aerial photograph of Cornhill 

10.2.4 A range of studies have been completed to support the development of the 

project. The most recent being a study undertaken by property advisors which 

concluded that, at least in very broad terms, a commercially driven scheme might 

be achievable in the Cornhill/ Barnfields area. 

10.2.5 Cornhill is identified in the Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) 

as one of four transformational projects, "These projects are those that provide the 

potential for a step-change in the tourism offer and they would be more catalytic and 

can transform the visitor economy of the area. These transformational projects could 

have a significant impact on the tourism economy of the District, either in terms of 

direct impact or in terms of catalysing wider development." (112) 

10.2.6 The study identifies a number of potential impacts for the visitor economy 

of development at Cornhill including: 

111 The Staffordshire Moorlands Local Development Framework An Ecological Survey (2010) page 15 

112 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) TEAM page 35 


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"Developing Cornhill is a necessary pre-cursor to bringing the railway to Leek 

(but is also dependent on it) and connecting it to the main rail network. 

It would start to put Leek on the visitor map, opening it to the benefits of 

potentially increased Churnet Valley Railway visitors and, in time, a physical link 

to Moneystone Quarry and Alton Towers (albeit this is only likely to be of 

relevance to visitors staying at Alton Towers). 

The Churnet Valley Railway may promote this as a good starting point for a trip 

to the Churnet Valley (increasing benefits for Leek of the Railway). 

It would create a potential tourism zone in its own right benefiting from some 

direct spend and employment opportunities, but the impact on central Leek may 

be more limited" (113) 

10.2.7 In terms of potential markets, the study identifies that, "The development 

is likely to be used by a range of markets including Countrysiders, and Discoverers 

(Canal Basin and Churnet Valley Railway), Treat (retail), and Family Fun (Churnet 

Valley Railway)." (114) 

10.2.8 The study sees Cornhill as "a key development to potentially opening up 

Leek and catalysing its visitor appeal - something of key importance for the District. 

A fuller feasibility study for this site is required to consider the viability of the following, 

all of which would be a boost to tourism for Leek and the Churnet Valley: 

The restoration of the line to Cheddleton and Stoke on Trent and a new station 

for Leek for both leisure and business uses 

The viability of a hotel at this location 

The location of appropriate retail and catering facilities serving both the station 

and a new hotel." (115) 

10.2.9 The study identifies that the development of the Corhill site, "should be 

driven by two main considerations: 

1. Ensuring that the site is designed for visitors. This includes ensuring good 

pedestrian access and sightlines between these elements (station, canal wharf, 

retail etc) that have appeal to visitors. 

2. Maximising connectivity with the town centre. There is some doubt about how 

many visitors to this site on the southern edge of Leek would visit the Leek town 

centre and new transport links, both public and private would be required." (116) 

10.2.10 The site lies within the urban area of Leek which was assessed by Wardell 

Armstrong in the 2008 Landscape and Settlement Character Assessment. In this 

document the area is identified as forming important open spaces/ tree cover. 

113 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) page 40 





10.2.11 Although the Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment does 

not specifically address the Cornhill site as it was considered in the 2008 study, it 

identifies opportunities for the area to the south of Cornhill (Dissected Cloughs and 

Valleys Character Sub Type 1c – Cheddleton and Longsdon). This includes the 

disused railway line and opportunity to improve signage and manage access to 

recreational facilities. It identifies “recreation and tourism associated with the Churnet 

Valley Railway, the two branches of Caldon Canal and Ladderedge Country Park" (117) 

as strengths. Relevant landscape planning guidance for this area include “Encourage 

the use of Public Rights of Way, The Staffordshire Way, Ladderedge Country Park 

and canal towpaths, through increased access, circular walks, and appropriate 

signage and interpretation, which demonstrate a chosen ‘house style’ for the Churnet 

Valley and further improvements to the entrance signage to Ladderedge Country 

Park.” (118) 

10.2.12 The Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) 

identifies the following opportunities and constraints associated with Cornhill: 

"Leek is a popular destination for visitors to the area 

Potential option to extend the railway track to Leek 

Potential option to build a southern link road from Newcastle Road to Cheddleton 

Road 

Site identified in the Core Strategy as having potential for employment, tourism 

and leisure uses." (119) 

10.2.13 Constraints identified include: 

"Access to the site is problematic 

Much of the area requires regeneration 

Significant investment in transport infrastructure required to deliver the site" (120) 

10.2.14 Also, the study highlights how, “proposals to extend the CVR would greatly 

add to the functionality of the railway, enhancing the visitor experience and also 

improving the accessibility and connectivity of the area. Any future extensions would 

be highly complementary to the future aims of the Churnet Valley Masterplan and 

could be closely aligned with improvements to the walking, cycling and public transport 

offer. Clearly, there would be engineering issues to be overcome and potential 

funding constraints with any works associated with extending the railway, but such 

proposals nevertheless present good opportunities for the development of the Churnet 

Valley as a sustainable tourism corridor.” (121) 

10.2.15 Better integrating the Caldon Canal with the Cornhill and Bolton 

Copperworks sites is identified in the Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity 

Study as having very good potential for increasing accessibility and connectivity 








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within the Churnet Valley but limited potential to improve accessibility and connectivity 

to and from the Churnet Valley. This potential measure is identified as providing the 

opportunity to make a medium contribution towards sustainable tourism. Extending 

the CVR into Leek and on to Stoke is identified as providing very good potential to 

improve accessibility and connectivity within the Churnet Valley and to and from the 

Churnet Valley and as making a high contribution towards sustainable tourism. (122) 

10.2.16 The Cornhill site along with Bolton Copperworks, Moneystone Quarry and 

Alton Towers key opportunity sites are identified as “offering the potential to secure 

and provide high quality transport infrastructure, particularly for walking and cycling 

and public transport.” 

(123) Leek and the Cornhill site and also encompassing 

Leekbrook Junction and the Caldon Canal is identified as one of two opportunity 

areas "whose accessibility would be improved through the co-ordinated improvement 

of transport linkages in the area. These opportunity areas focus upon specific 

attractions or clusters of attractions and also the key transport linkages which could 

facilitate the development of a particular corridor within the study area." (124) 

10.2.17 In 2006, a study was published which investigated the potential to restore, 

extend and develop the canal in Leek. The study looked at a range of options for 

"the creation of a new destination at the end of the Leek Arm of the Caldon Canal 

with the potential to bring vitality to the Canal and the town." 

(125) Further work is 

identified as being required, "For any route option locations to be considered 

further,more detailed site investigations will be required to fully assess the area's 

topography and to investigate underlying ground conditions." (126) The study concludes 

that, "A number of key organisations such as Staffordshire Moorlands District Council 

and Churnet Valley Railway will also need to be involved and consulted to ensure 

there is a link up with wider regeneration and development plans for the area. A new 

canal terminus teamed with Churnet Valley Railway's aspirations to reopen the railway 

offer an exciting opportunity to reestablish two lost transport connections to the town 

and increase tourism in Leek and the Churnet Valley." (127) 

10.3 Consall Hall Gardens 

10.3.1 Consall Hall Gardens were designed by William Podmore. The gardens 

are open to visitors on certain days in the spring and summer months. There is a 

tea room for visitors and tours of the garden are available. A wedding and conference 

venue runs from the site. (128) 


123 Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity 2011 page 50 

124 Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) page 26 

125 Caldon Canal Leek Arm Canal Corridor Study to investigate the potential to restore, extend and develop the canal in 

Leek (2006) British Waterways, The Inland Waterways Association and Caldon and Uttoxeter Canal (Mott MacDonald) 

page 63 



page 63 



page 63 

128 Consall Hall Landscape Gardens website www.consallgardens.co.uk 


Picture 10.2 Aerial Photograph of Consall Hall Gardens 

10.3.2 The site is located in the North Staffordshire Green Belt and Staffordshire 

Moorlands Local Plan designated Special Landscape Area. Part of the site is 

identified as a Site of Biological Interest (SBI) and adjacent to the site is a Site of 

Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which is part of Consall Nature Park. 

10.3.3 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies that "The 

owner is considering the establishment of a Trust to manage and better interpret the 

gardens and there are plans to locate accommodation in the form of high quality self 

catering lodges in part of the garden and possibly a caravan and camp site nearby. 

Improvements to the visitor facilities, with the provision of a new cafe and introductory 

interpretation of the history of the estate and William Podmore would do much to 

enhance the site as a visitor attraction. Currently a road links the garden and house 

with Consall Forge station and the Black Lion Inn and these linkages should be 

maximised through signposting, mutual promotional activity, and possibly joint ticketing 

between the attractions." (129) It is identified in the study as one of a number of 

129 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) TEAM pages 43 and 44 



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attractions which together are seen as one of a number of supporting projects "that 

would enhance the offer by adding further product depth and/or quality... The projects 

collectively would improve access to and within the area, enhance and develop new 

visitor attractions and improve the accommodation stock." (130) 

10.3.4 The Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) identifies a number of 

opportunities associated with the site including: 

"Popular visitor attraction with attractive surroundings 

Consall Station is nearby 

Staffordshire Way offers potential to improve walking links to the site 

Signage to the site could be improved" 

10.3.5 A number of constraints are identified including: 

"Main access is for cars only 

Standard of access to Consall Hall is poor 

Access by bus is currently non-existent 

Issue of controlling public access for management reasons" 

10.3.6 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment identifies Consall 

Hall Gardens as lying within two Character Type Sub Areas. The majority of the site 

lies within the Settled Plateau Farmlands sub type 4a and the south eastern part of 

the site lies within the Dissected Sandstone Cloughs and Valleys 1b Consall and 

Froghall. Consall Hall Gardens is identified as a strength in this area. The site is 

identified as providing the potential to provide an increased tourism/ recreational 

destination site within the area. It identifies the need to improve the financial viability 

of Consall Hall & Gardens to secure retention of parkland in the list of threats for the 

area. (131) 

10.3.7 In terms of landscape planning guidance for sub type 4a, the need to ensure 

that any new development is readily assimilated into the landscape and reduce visual 

impact through ensuring that associated vegetation is reinforced or new planting 

blocks established. It highlights considerations that should be had if new planting is 

undertaken. It also highlights the need to ensure that unnecessary urban features 

are not introduce at the site and for development to be "in-keeping with the 

woodland/natural landscape in which it would be located." (132) It also identifies that, 

"Development within existing established woodland would need careful consideration 

in relation to the future management of woodland and the potential wind blow as a 

result of tree removal." (133) 






10.4 Moneystone Quarry 

10.4.1 Quarrying activity at Moneystone Quarry is due to cease at the end of 2011. 

It is understood that this will result in the loss of some 70 jobs at the site. The site 

is currently subject to a restoration plan. 

10.4.2 Laver Leisure has recently acquired the site, with the intention of developing 

the site as an 'eco-resort', to be known as Oakamoor Park, with outdoor recreational 

activities and quality holiday accommodation. They have produced a draft indicative 

scheme which was subject of public consultation earlier this year. 

Picture 10.3 Aerial Photograph of Moneystone Quarry 

10.4.3 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies the potential 

Moneystone Quarry development as a holiday and activity resort as one of four 

'transformational projects' which are explained earlier in this report. The study 

identifies a number of potential impacts of this form of development at the site: 

"Significant direct impacts - jobs and spend. 



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The development of a potential new market. This could be quite large and may 

share characteristics with Alton Towers (Family Fun) but also 'Countrysiders' in 

terms of some activities - with potential interests in family attractions but also 

with outdoor activities. The development could also stimulate further meetings 

and conference visitors. 

Linked to this, Moneystone has the potential to create wider impacts, with visitors 

staying at this site undertaking activities and spending in the surrounding area. 

In this sense they would add to the viability and profitability of operations in the 

area. 

The marketing of this site by the operators would help to further raise the profile 

of the area as a tourist destination." (134) 

10.4.4 The study identifies that "while Moneystone is a potentially exciting 

development for the District, it will need to largely create its own market... It is unlikely 

to survive from existing markets to the Staffordshire Moorlands. That said, it may 

attract or displace some existing Alton Towers visitors." Staffordshire Moorlands 

Tourism Study (2011) TEAM page 38 

10.4.5 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) does not see this 

potential development as having a negative impact on existing accommodation stock 

in the area and identifies that, "It is not dependent on other developments in the area, 

although might benefit from a link with the Churnet Valley Railway. That said, there 

is likely to be a relationship with Alton Towers and any assumptions for visitor levels 

at Moneystone Quarry need to take account of a potential increase in visitor 

accommodation at Alton Towers...Other issues that need to address would be the 

detailed design and quality of the development, and transport impacts." (135) 

10.4.6 The Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) identifies 

a number of opportunities associated with the site including: 

"Large site potentially available for redevelopment 

Close proximity to the disused section of the railway line 

Potential to provide tourist accommodation and related facilities 

Redevelopment could secure funding for transport improvements" (136) 

10.4.7 The constraints identified are: 

"Road links to the site are very constrained 

Current site access is problematic 

Topography of the are is challenging for development" (137) 


135 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011)TEAM page 38 




10.4.8 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment(2011) identifies 

that proposals for the redevelopment of Moneystone Quarry "should be in-keeping 

with the scale and nature of the landscape character of the three sub areas within 

which it is located. Active workings of Moneystone Quarry are generally well screened 

from views." (138) 

10.4.9 The study provides significant detail regarding the considerations any future 

redevelopment of the site should have including consideration for the openness and 

high visibility of areas outside the active quarry and the area around Whiston in 

particular is identified. The study recommends that, "additional planting should be 

of a nature that complements the informal wooded setting of the Dissected Sandstone 

Clough and Valleys and relates to the existing woodland planting associated with 

the quarry." (139) The sensitive nature of the small scale landscape is also highlighted 

and the need to ensure woodland planting does not have an adverse impact on this 

landscape character. The study identifies that development proposals for static 

caravans and lodges in visible locations should be discouraged and that they should 

be located "where they do not impinge on the small scale landscape or the open, 

visible landscape and where they can be well screened by existing vegetation or can 

be screened by appropriately located new planting." (140) 

10.4.10 The study also suggested that, "To minimise the impact of vehicle 

movements associated with this redevelopment and pressure to carry put visually 

intrusive road improvement, sustainable measures and practice should be considered 

such as the creating of off road cycle routes to this attraction and partnership working 

with Moorland and City Railway Ltd to extend local rail access." (141) 

10.4.11 It also highlights that any road improvements associated with any 

development should "avoid creating intrusive urban features. Roads within the site 

should be of a scale and nature that are not intrusive to the landscape character and 

should minimise hedgerow and tree removal." (142) 

10.5 Bolton Copperworks Froghall 

10.5.1 This site is identified in the emerging Core Strategy as a ‘major regeneration 

opportunity site’ for a range of potential uses including employment, housing, tourism 

and leisure. 








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Picture 10.4 Aerial Photograph of Bolton Copperworks, Froghall 

10.5.2 The site has been subject to separate masterplanning work through the 

Government’s Rural Masterplanning Fund. Consultants Taylor Young were 

commissioned to assist in preparing a Masterplan for the site. A baseline report was 

produced in October 2010 which identified key issues the Masterplan would need to 

address. 

10.5.3 Workshops have taken places to identify a vision for the site and explore 

options for the development of the site. These involved District and Parish Councillors, 

officers and key stakeholders. Following on from this the final option was presented 

to District Councillors in January 2011. 

10.5.4 This masterplanning work will be taken forward through the Churnet Valley 

Masterplan. 

10.5.5 The Draft Final Report May 2011 identifies a vision for Froghall which has 

emerged from the masterplanning work. The vision is to be realised over a period 

of 10-15 years, the same time frame as the overall Churnet Valley Masterplan. It 

envisages Froghall becoming the principal gateway and destination for tourism in 

the Churnet Valley and recognises the role of the local community. 


10.5.6 The Caldon Canal Conservation Area has recently been extended to include 

the chimney on the Bolton Copperworks site. Earlier this year, a planning application 

for Conservation Area consent to demolish the chimney was refused. An appeal is 

now underway. 

10.5.7 The Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study highlights the 

opportunities presented by the site include that it is being served by the A52, its close 

proximity to the Caldon Canal and the Churnet Valley Railway and the close proximity 

to Froghall Wharf. It identifies that there is potential to integrate the site with the 

Caldon Canal, River Churnet and new access links. (143) 

10.5.8 A number of the potential measures identified in the study relate to this site 

including providing a designated walking route between Froghall and Leek and 

between Froghall Basin and Oakamoor. Introducing cycle lanes on the road network 

which is identified as having very good potential to improve accessibility and 

connectivity within the Churnet Valley and would make a high contribution towards 

sustainable tourism. Other measures which could potentially involve this site include 

providing strategic parking locations around the Churnet Valley which is identified 

as having good potential to improve accessibility to and from the Churnet Valley as 

well as within the Churnet Valley and as making a medium contribution towards 

sustainable tourism. There are a number of other potential measures identified that 

could have implications for the site including extending the Churnet Valley Railway, 

restoring and extending the Uttoxeter Canal and introducing park and ride sites. (144) 

10.6 Alton Towers 

10.6.1 Alton Towers Resort is a national visitor attraction which includes a theme 

park, hotel accommodation (two hotels), conference centre, registered park and 

gardens, water park and golf. Separate admission is available for the water park 

and golf. It is a major driver of the local tourist economy and a significant employer. 

10.6.2 The site lies in the open countryside and the Alton and Farley Conservation 

Area. Current planning guidance for development at Alton Towers is contained the 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan Saved policies and the Alton Towers 

Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) which was adopted in 1988. The 

emerging Core Strategy Policy SS7 is supportive of the "sensitive expansion of 

Alton Towers" and requires that the SPG is updated. Work is underway to prepare 

a new Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) which will address the long term 

development of the leisure park and related infrastructure provision. As part of the 

preparation of the Churnet Valley Masterplan consideration will need to be had for 

the most appropriate way to take forward the guidance for future development at 

Alton Towers, either as a stand-alone SPD or as part of the overarching Masterplan. 


144 Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) pages 38 and 39 



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10.6.3 Alton Towers Resort, through their planning consultants, have prepared a 

Long Term Plan and technical studies which establishes their plans for the next ten 

years. Alton Towers Resort undertook community consultation on their long term 

plans in summer 2009. 

10.6.4 Alton Towers lies north of Alton village on the opposite side of the River 

Churnet. Within Alton Towers Resort there is a Grade 1 Registered Park and Garden 

which is "laid out around a major early 19th Century Country House." (145) The 

Churnet Valley Landscape and Character Assessment (2011) identifies that 

development should consider the sensitive nature of the Registered Historic Parkland 

and development should seek to "maintain the character of the parkland landscape, 

retaining and reinforcing parkland trees. New development proposals that extend 

into the wider parkland should take account of the parkland setting, and where 

possible reinforce the vegetation structure to enable new development to be absorbed 

within this important landscape." (146) The study makes recommendations on 

minimising the impact of vehicle movements through considering "sustainable 

transport measures and practice including off road cycle routes and partnership 

working with Moorland and City Railway to extend local rail access. It also identifies 

that "Necessary road improvements associated with the expansion of the facility 

should be in keeping with the character of the area and avoid creating intrusive urban 

features." (147) 

10.6.5 It identifies that, "Consideration should be given to providing pedestrian 

access only to the Registered Park and Gardens within Alton Towers." Currently 

access is only available through the theme park admission, no admission is available 

to enter just the park and gardens. (148) 

10.6.6 A Conservation Area Appraisal has been prepared for Alton and Farley 

Conservation Area. This highlights that in the 19th Century the Shrewsbury family 

and a number of architects were responsible for turning a hunting lodge into "Alton 

Towers, the largest private house in England, and its surroundings into an outstanding 

garden." (149) 

It identifies that, "Even its present ruined state Alton Towers is 

impressive as are the grounds, which contains one of Englands finest gardens. With 

Alton Park they contain no less than 30 listed structures ranging from the house itself 

to a series of garden features." (150) Bunbury Hillfort is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. 

10.6.7 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) estimates that, "Alton 

Towers directly (i.e. not including off site stays in other accommodation) will be 

generating approximately 50% of overnight trips to the Staffordshire Moorlands." (151) 

It identifies a number of supporting projects and actions, "which would add depth 

and critical mass to either existing markets, or new markets and products. They 

would also enhance the overall attractiveness and appeal of the District." These 

145 Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) section 1a Alton and Oakamoor Wardell Armstrong 




149 Alton and Farley Conservation Area Appraisal Consultation Edition. 

150 Alton and Farley Conservation Area Appraisal Consultation Edition 



include making more of Leek, enhancing access in the area and connectivity within 

it, developing new and improving the existing major attractions/ attractors, encouraging 

and promoting more events, enhancing the accommodation stock, going green and 

retail. Some of these are relevant to any future development at Alton Towers. 

10.6.8 On the issue of providing further accommodation at Alton Towers in the 

form of either a hotel or lodge accommodation the study states, "While the benefits 

of Alton Towers is largely site specific, this investment would be good for the District 

in terms of maintaining Alton Towers' market position and increasing spend (and 

jobs) on site. Further development of accommodation at Alton Towers is unlikely to 

have a negative impact on other local accommodation operators. Alton Towers will 

create its own markets. There may also be the possibility that, by creating a longer 

stay market (3 nights plus), there are opportunities to create some linkages between 

Alton Towers and the rest of the District - most particularly via the Churnet Valley 

Railway." (152) 

Picture 10.5 Aerial Photograph of Alton Towers Resort 


identifies that there is scope to enhance the linkages between Alton Towers and the 

rest of the Churnet Valley, opportunity to improve public transport access and that 

there are opportunities associated with the aspirations of Moorland and City Railway 

to reopen the line to Alton. It also identifies a number of constraints including: 




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"Road links to the site are substandard in places 

Issues with congestion during certain times of the year - particularly through 

Alton village 

Visitor numbers can have a detrimental impact on the local area 

Very seasonal in terms of visitor numbers." (153) 

11 Other Potential Opportunities 

11.1 Anzio Camp, Blackshaw Moor 

11.1.1 Located 3 miles to the north of Leek, it is a former army training base and 

includes a significant number of existing buildings. It is in close proximity of the Peak 

District National Park in particular The Roaches which is a popular area for walking 

and climbing. It is an area of high landscape value designated in the Staffordshire 

Moorlands Local Plan as Special Landscape Area. 

Picture 11.1 Aerial photograph of Anzio Camp 

11.1.2 The emerging Core Strategy Policy SS6c identifies the site as being 

potentially suitable for employment, extra care housing and tourist accommodation 

uses and that it is to be identified in the Site Allocations DPD as a major developed 

area. 

11.1.3 The site has recent planning history. In 2006, a planning application for 

development of site to provide care village, comprising of 238 apartments plus 60 

bed spaces, with ancillary care facilities was withdrawn (reference 

06/00700/FUL_MJ). A proposal for a care retirement community development 

comprising of 200 dwellings, integrated 50 bedroom residential care home, healthcare, 

lifestyle, leisure, administration offices and crèche facilities including refurbishment 

of 4 existing buildings and on site infrastructure and service works was refused in 

November 2008 (reference 08/01272/OUT_MJ). The reasons for refusal included 



that insufficient evidence had been submitted to demonstrate that the proposed 200 

units would fall within the C2 use (residential institutions) as the site lies within the 

open countryside in a Special Landscape Area on the fringe of the Peak District 

National Park where 200 units C3 use (residential) would constitute an inappropriate 

form of development. Reference was made to the relatively isolated nature of the 

location, limited availability of nearby services and poor bus connections. Also, 

reference was made to the need for the scale of development having not been 

demonstrated and impact on the character and appearance of the Special Landscape 

Area. Also, it had not been demonstrated why more of the existing buildings on site 

could not be reused. The second reason for refusal was that insufficient evidence 

had been submitted to demonstrate that future occupiers of the proposed development 

would not be adversely affected by noise form the nearby shooting club. The third 

reason was that no provision had been made for affordable housing. 

11.1.4 There is still developer interest in developing a care development on the 

site which could include some tourism associated uses. 

11.1.5 Key issues associated with this site include ensuring that any future 

development of the site is sustainable and that issues of setting and visual impact 

are adequately addressed due to proximity to the Peak District National Park. Other 

considerations include that the Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) 

identifies an inner core and outer zone to the Churnet Valley and Anzio Camp is on 

the fringes of the outer zone which is identified as a broader zone "where visitor 

facilities, attractions and accommodation could also be developed and linked to 

support and enhance the inner Churnet Valley product." (154) Any development at 

this site needs to complement and not compete with the offer in the inner zone. Also, 

consideration should be had for the fact that the Churnet Valley is seen as providing 

an opportunity to ease tourism pressure on the Peak District National Park 

consequently future development should not compromise this objective but help to 

support its achievement. This could be through offering an alternative to the Peak 

District National Park for outdoor activities to then draw visitors to other parts of the 

Churnet Valley. 

11.2 Churnet Works, Leek 

11.2.1 The Churnet Works site is identified as a Major Regeneration Opportunity 

in the emerging Core Strategy policy SS5a (Leek Area Strategy). The Core 

Strategy identifies a number of uses which may be suitable for the site these include 

employment, residential, retail and leisure. The Churnet Works area is located in 

the north west of Leek off the Macclesfield Road. 

11.2.2 The site has recent planning history with a proposal for erection of a 

supermarket (A1), retail units (A1), employment units (B1, B2 and B8), residential 

(up to 58 apartments and 34 dwellings (C3 Use), petrol filling station (Sui Generis) 

with associated parking, access, landscaping, provision of public open space and 

other works (reference 10/00041/OMAJEI) having been approved on the 4 May 2011. 




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11.2.3 Due to the site having planning consent no further consideration is to be 

given to it within the Churnet Valley Masterplan. The development of this site will 

have implications for the Churnet Valley Masterplan. It will create new open space, 

incorporate flood mitigation measures and will enhance the area around Brindley 

Mill and associate highway works will improve traffic flow round Leek. 

11.3 Cotton College 

Picture 11.2 Aerial Photograph of the Churnet Works Area, Leek 

11.3.1 The Council adopted a Development Brief for Cotton College in 1998. 

Cotton College is a "former private boarding school operated by the Roman Catholic 

Archdiocese of Birmingham until closure in 1987. The complex is based around a 

late eighteenth century house built for Thomas Gilbert Esquire... The property was 

subsequently acquired by the Earl of Shrewsbury as an addition to his vast estates 

nearby at Alton. The property was subsequently acquired by the Earl of Shrewsbury 

as an addition to his vast estates nearby at Alton. Following the purchase of the 

property, building was modified and extended in Shrewsbury's favoured Gothic rival 

style under the guidance of his architect A.W.N Pugin. Pugin is the foremost exponent 

of the Gothic Revival and much of the building's present appearance gives evidence 

of his unique style. This association with an architect of international significance 

adds to the importance of the building." (155) 

155 Staffordshire Moorlands District Council Development Brief Cotton College February 1998 page 2 


11.3.2 The Development Brief for the site identifies a number of uses which may 

be suitable for the site, these include residential, leisure and employment use. 

Picture 11.3 Aerial Photograph of Cotton College 

11.3.3 Cotton College is located approximately four miles north east of Cheadle. 

11.3.4 The site lies within the open countryside which is designated in the 

Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan as a Special Landscape Area. There are a 

number of Listed Structures on the site which are detailed in the Development Brief. 

11.3.5 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) identifies 

Cotton College as a historic feature within Dissected Sandstone Cloughs and Valleys 

Character Sub Type 1a Alton and Oakamoor within this sub type it highlights that 

the abandoned development at Cotton College is currently a weakness and provides 

an opportunity for development "However, the abandoned development site has a 

substantial negative impact on the landscape character, with the potential loss of an 

historic landscape feature." (156) 

It identifies the Sabrina Way National Bridle Route 

as running along the eastern side and more generally identifies that "Consideration 

should be given to providing recreational opportunities along the Sabrina Way 




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Bridleway for long distance horse riding accommodation. This small scale form of 

development should be considered alongside all other landscape planning guidelines 

specific to this area." (157) It identifies small scale landscapes lying to the south west 

and beyond this is ancient woodland. The Churnet Valley Landscape Character 

Assessment identifies a potential boundary to the Churnet Valley Masterplan based 

on landscape character considerations, Cotton College lies just within the eastern 

edge of this boundary. 

11.3.6 As the Cotton College site has already been subject to a Development Brief, 

it is felt that the site does not require further consideration in the Churnet Valley 

Masterplan although there may be opportunities for leisure related development to 

come forward at the site. The site has some tourism potential particularly due to the 

links with Pugin. It is understood that the owners are interested in residential 

development. 

11.3.7 Due to a number of uses being consider to be potentially suitable, there 

already being a development brief for the site, it is appropriate to consider this site 

through the development management process rather than to identify it as an 

opportunity site for further consideration in the Churnet Valley Masterplan. There is 

a need to ensure that any future use is complementary to the aims and objectives 

of the Masterplan and any measures proposed which may affect the site. 

11.4 Land at Mollatts Wood 

11.4.1 This is a site which lies in the open countryside which is designated as 

Green Belt and Special Landscape Area in the Staffordshire Moorlands Local 

Plan. Other planning policy considerations include the Caldon Canal Conservation 

Area. There is a SSSI in the area. There is known to be interest in developing the 

site for holiday lodges and there has been the suggestion of creating a marina as 

the site is adjacent to the Caldon Canal. There are access constraints, the site is 

relatively remote and there are a lack of other visitor attractions in the area other 

than the Caldon Canal. 



Picture 11.4 Aerial Photograph of Land at Mollatt's 

Wood 

11.4.2 Due to the relative remoteness of the site from visitor attractions, other than 

the canal, and from the town of Leek and the villages of Longsdon and Ladderedge, 

and the significant constraints to development associated with its Green Belt status, 

the site is not considered appropriate for further consideration as an opportunity site 

in the Masterplan. However the site may be suitable for consideration through the 

development management process dependent on the approach to future development 

that is adopted through the Churnet Valley Masterplan. 

11.5 Re-opening the Railway 


11.5.1 Moorland and City Railway has ambitions to re-open the railway line from 

Stoke to Leek and on to Cauldon Lowe near Waterhouses for freight and passenger 

transport and to potentially extend the Churnet Valley Railway from Oakamoor to 

Alton Towers. 

11.5.2 The Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan proposals map identifies the 

line between Leekbrook and the District boundary (the route to Stoke which runs to 

the south of Endon) as being protected. The line from Leekbrook to the east of 

Oakamoor is protected and so is the line from Leekbrook to Cauldon. Staffordshire 

Moorlands Local Plan Saved policy R15 states "The District Council will encourage 

the development of the Churnet Valley Railway and associated facilities which 

enhance the tourism potential of the District. Where applicable proposals should 

comply with Green Belt policies." The greenway between Oakamoor and to beyond 

the District boundary is designated an SBI (Churnet Valley Railway SBI). 

11.5.3 Extension of the Churnet Valley Railway is one of the forms of development 

and measures listed within the emerging Core Strategy Policy SS7 which will be 

supported. Emerging Core Strategy policy T2 states the Council will, "continue to 

safeguard all existing disused railway lines within the District and support the use of 

these for public or commercial/ tourism use." 


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11.5.4 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies the Churnet 

Valley Railway developments and the rail link to Stoke on Trent as one of four 

transformational projects which could have a significant impact on the tourism 

economy of the District. It identifies potential impacts of extending the railway 

including increasing the attraction of the Churnet Valley Railway as "visitor numbers 

could increase from current levels of approximately 70,000 visitors towards 200k+ 

visitors in time)" and "The potential to catalyse other sites in the district (particularly 

Leek Cornhill and Froghall)." It also identifies the physical and thematic linkages 

that the railway could create between Alton Towers and the rest of the District and 

therefore the potential to attract some visitors out from Alton Towers. The study 

therefore identifies the proposal as being "a key project for Staffordshire Moorlands' 

visitor economy in the sense of both potential direct impacts (in stimulating the Churnet 

Valley Railway) but also catalysing other initiatives." 

11.5.5 The study identifies that such development would appeal to existing market 

segments namely the 'Countrysiders', 'Family Fun' and 'Discoverers' and that it could 

open up new markets. 


comments that the potential measure to extend the railway into Leek and on to Stoke 

has very good potential to improve connectivity within the Churnet Valley and to and 

from the Churnet Valley and that this would make a high contribution to sustainable 

tourism. Extending the railway to Alton via Oakamoor is identified as having very 

good potential to improve accessibility and connectivity within the Churnet Valley 

and good potential to improve connectivity to and from the Churnet Valley and is 

identified as making a high contribution towards sustainable tourism. Providing more 

crossing points over the rail lines for non-car modes is identified as having very good 

potential to improve accessibility and connectivity within the Churnet Valley and good 

potential to improve accessibility and connectivity to and from the Churnet Valley. 

This is considered to have the potential to make a high contribution towards 

sustainable tourism. Section 3.6 of the study goes onto specifically address the 

Churnet Valley Railway, concluding that, "Overall, the proposals to extend the CVR 

would greatly add to the functionality of the railway, enhancing the visitor experience 

and also the functionality of the railway and also improving the accessibility and 

connectivity of the area. Any future extensions would be highly complementary to 

the future aims of the Churnet Valley Masterplan and could be closely aligned with 

improvements to the walking, cycling and public transport offer. Clearly, there would 

be engineering issues to be overcome and potential funding constraints with any 

works associated with extending the railway, but such proposals nevertheless present 

good opportunities for the development of the Churnet Valley as a sustainable tourism 

corridor." (158) 

11.5.7 The Churnet Valley Landscape Character Assessment (2011) identifies 

that an extended railway provides an opportunity to minimise the impact of vehicle 

movements at some of the opportunity sites including Moneystone Quarry and Alton 

Towers. 



11.6 Restoration of the Uttoxeter Canal 

11.6.1 In 2009, a feasibility study was prepared on behalf of Staffordshire County 

Council and the Caldon and Uttoxeter Canal Trust which investigated the potential 

to restore the canal from Froghall to a quarry site to the north east of Uttoxeter. This 

concluded that the restoration of the canal was technically feasible although there 

are significant issues associated with the project including obtaining the required 

funding. 

11.6.2 The Churnet Valley Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) identifies 

that further technical assessments would be necessary to further develop the proposal 

and therefore, "It is recommended that the restoration of the canal remains an 

aspiration for the area, but that in the context of developing the Churnet Valley as a 

sustainable tourism corridor this scheme has a number of significant constraints 

which would reduce its deliverability when compared to other measures proposed 

for consideration... There may, however, be interim options to provide walking and 

cycling links along the line of the former canal, such as a walking route from Froghall 

Basin to Oakamoor." (159) 

11.6.3 Parts of the route of the former Uttoxeter Canal are designated an SBI 

(Churnet Valley Railway SBI). 

11.7 Market Towns 

11.7.1 The market towns of Leek and Cheadle have been identified as acting as 

gateways to the Churnet Valley. The Accessibility and Connectivity Study (2011) 

identifies that "The towns of Cheadle and Leek are often the first point of entry for 

people visiting the area and these settlements represent and provide a point of 

reference or source of information from which the next part of a journey towards one 

of the many attractions nearby is made." (160) 

11.7.2 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies that Leek 

and Cheadle both have further opportunities for tourism. It highlights that there is 

an opportunity to make more of Leek, identifying that it is "currently under performing 

as a visitor destination but has a real long term potential." (161) It goes on to list a 

number of projects which could help in the development of tourism, including: 

"Making every effort to support and improve the retail and catering offer of the 

town and ensure they are more orientated to visitors - these are key areas for 

the visitor. 

Encouraging the development of a hotel in Leek... 

Development at Cornhill site. 

Improve the appearance of the main Leek- Ashbourne road through the town 

and general public realm improvements. 

The addition of a new theatre/ art gallery. 



161 Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) TEAM) page 42 



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More events. 

Making more of the Nicholson Gallery with better signing and prominent entrance 

sign . 

Stressing the Arts and Crafts connections of Leek in its promotion and events." 

11.7.3 The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourism Study (2011) identifies that "the 

promotion of markets and events would be beneficial to Cheadle and Biddulph in 

particular. For the former, events and markets will provide visitors to the church at 

St Giles a reason to linger in the town." (162) It also identifies the potential for a "Budget 

hotel in Leek and possibly Cheadle." (163) 

12 Summary of Baseline Findings 

12.0.1 The following strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis 

summarises the key findings of the baseline report and supporting studies: 

Strengths 

High quality attractive landscape 

Environmental quality of the area including a number of Sites of Special Scientific 

Interest (SSSIs), Regionally Important Geological sites (RIGs), Sites of Biological 

Importance (SBI) and ancient woodland. 

Good road links to and from the area. These include the A53 (Leek-Stoke), A52 

(Stoke-Derby), A523 (Leek-Macclesfield) A520 (Leek-Stone), and links to the 

A50. 

Number of existing visitor attractions of varying scales which appeal to a variety 

of visitor segments. Two main markets: 

'countrysiders' who are visiting the area for a combination of experiences - 

activities, discovery/ sightseeing, and rest and relaxation. Outdoor activities 

will be the main activity but the natural environment and scenery will be a 

key underpinning appeal. 

'family fun' -fun day out with the family. Typically visiting an attraction. Alton 

Towers is the primary attraction (accounting for the vast majority of visits) 

although this market group may visit some other attractions in the District 

(albeit in considerably lower volumes). 

Industrial heritage including the Churnet Valley Railway, Caldon Canal, former 

Uttoxeter Canal and tramways. 

Strong sense of community who seek to maintain, enhance and protect the 

special qualities of the area. 

Two tourism brands within the District of genuine national significance, Alton 

Towers and the Peak District, supported by a range of more modest, but 

nevertheless important attractors including the market towns of Leek and Cheadle 




and the natural and industrial history of the Churnet Valley including the Churnet 

Valley heritage railway and the Caldon Canal. 

Weaknesses 

Lack of physical and promotional linkages between visitor attractions. 

Reliance on the private car due to rural nature of the area, limited capacity of 

the highway network which is of a poor standard in places. Congestion at peak 

times of the year can be experienced due to visitor traffic. The rural nature of 

the area limits the opportunities for physical transport improvements and reduces 

the viability of new services. 

Limited access within the Churnet Valley by public transport – bus routes 

generally limited to main roads. 

Topography and physical barriers including the railway and canal can be 

restrictive to movement within the corridor. 

No large well-known towns to act as a focus and provide national profile (e.g. 

an equivalent to Buxton and Bakewell). 

Area is relatively unknown. 

Limited range of accommodation in particular the Staffordshire Moorlands lacks 

any significant sized hotels other than those at Alton Towers Resort. 

Current economic climate - however this is a 10 -15 year plan and therefore this 

should not stifle planning for future resurgence. The Masterplan must be flexible 

to economic changes. 

Limited opportunities for cycling and horse riding. 

Opportunities 


Scope to promote Leek and Cheadle as gateways to the area, both in a physical 

sense including potential opportunities to create a hotel with potential sites having 

been identified in both the Leek and Cheadle Town Centre Masterplans and 

also through acting as a source of information. 

Number of attractions in relatively close proximity of each other where linked 

visits could be encouraged through new and improved promotion, signage and 

physical linkages. 

Potential redevelopment opportunities including large sites such as Bolton 

Copperworks, Froghall; Churnet Works, Leek; Cornhill, Leek; Moneystone Quarry, 

giving further consideration to their future roles through the preparation of the 

Masterplan. These are sites where there is pressure for change. 

Scope to enhance opportunities for walking, cycling and horse riding through 

creating and enhancing linkages between existing routes and through upgrading 

routes and creating new routes. This ties in with the work of the Churnet Valley 

Living Landscape Partnership (CVLLP). It also links in with the Staffordshire 

Moorlands Tourism Study findings that the Churnet Valley should market and 

position itself to the ‘Countrysiders’ segment – people coming for experiences 

which include activities, discovery/ sightseeing and, rest and relaxation. 

Significant visitor potential linked to the combination of its fascinating industrial 

heritage, attractive natural environment, the walking, cycling and horse riding 


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opportunities, the canal and the further development of the Churnet Valley 

Railway as both an attraction but also a transport link. The potential of the 

Churnet Valley is identified as lying in its development as an attraction – 

conceived as providing a full day’s activity, with a mixture of experiences. 

Opportunities to enhance and create further biodiversity. 

Active interest of Moorland and City Railway in re-opening the railway line to 

Leek and Stoke, and the line from Oakamoor to Alton which provides potential 

to reduce car journeys, connect villages and, existing and potential attractions, 

and to act as a visitor attraction in its own right with enhanced visitor appeal due 

to ability to visit a number of attractions on the route. There is also the potential 

to continue the recently re-opened route to Cauldon Lowe further to Waterhouses 

where a former station is already in existence. This could provide an opportunity 

to access the visitor attractions of Blackbrook Zoological Park and the Manifold 

Trail by rail. 

Community Infrastructure Levy offers the opportunity to pool contributions and 

generate investment for infrastructure required due to new developments. A 

charging tariff specific to the Churnet Valley Masterplan area could be pursued 

by the Council. This would set charging rates for specific types of development 

within the zone. This has the potential to include funding towards re-opening 

of the railway. 

A feasibility study has been completed which demonstrates that the restoration 

of the Uttoxeter Canal between Caldon Canal at Froghall and the Uttoxeter 

Gravel pits is a technically feasible project and identifies that the restored canal 

would bring economic and social benefits to the area. There substantial costs 

associated with the restoration and obtaining the required funding would be a 

significant challenge. In the shorter term there is a potential opportunity to extend 

footpath links along its route including at the Bolton Copperworks site. 

Opportunities for job creation through new and extended visitor attractions and 

holiday accommodation. 

Investment in the area through development has the potential to deliver 

community benefits which could include enhanced community facilities and 

services and/ or the safeguarding of existing services and/or facilities such as 

the village public house, local shop, and improved public transport and recreation 

opportunities. 

Conurbations with large populations in close proximity. In terms of a location 

for short break holidays, where rapid road access is of lesser significance. 

Identified potential for a number of transformational projects to transform the 

visitor economy of the area either in terms of direct impact or catalysing wider 

development: 

Churnet Valley Railway development and the rail link to Stoke on Trent 

Moneystone Quarry development as a holiday and activity resort 

Bolton Copperworks and its potential to link together the railway and the 

canal basin and build on the industrial heritage interest of the Froghall area 

Cornhill, Leek 


Threats 


Identified potential for a number of supporting projects and actions which could 

add depth and critical mass to either the existing markets, or new markets and 

products and which would enhance the overall attractiveness and appeal of the 

District. These projects include: 

Making more of Leek 

Enhancing access to the area and connectivity within it 

Developing new and improving the existing major attractions/ attractors 

Encouraging and promoting more events 

Enhancing the accommodation stock 

Going Green 

Retail 

Lack of a planning framework leading to uncoordinated, piecemeal development. 

Without a co-ordinated planned approach to future development there is the 

potential for strategic opportunities to be missed including developer 

contributions. There would be no planning framework to support and co-ordinate 

other initiatives and projects and a high risk that future developments and 

changes may not properly address the needs of the area. 

Potential impact of future development on landscape, heritage, environment and 

traffic levels in the area, particularly associated with development at Moneystone 

Quarry and Alton Towers. 

There are a number of potential threats on the landscape including replacement 

of hedgerows and dry stone walls by stock proof fencing, overgrazing and 

horsiculture, erosion and loss of parkland landscapes, loss of tree cover and 

lack of woodland management, erosion of canal infrastructure, 'urbanisation' of 

rural villages and isolated dwellings, urban fringe impacts associated with Leek, 

development which does not reflect local vernacular and urban style highway 

improvements. 

Potential future development at Moneystone Quarry could cause loss of small 

scale landscape features further eroding the character of the local landscape. 

There are biodiversity sites in close proximity which could potentially be 

vulnerable to future change. 

Expansion of Alton Towers Resort may have adverse impacts on parkland 

landscape and be visually intrusive. There are biodiversity sites in the area 

which could potentially be vulnerable to future change. 

Further development along the shoreline and banks of Rudyard Reservoir could 

threaten the landscape of the area. 

Lack of appropriate facilities investment and repairs associated with tourist 

attractions and destination sites in the Froghall and Consall Forge area is 

identified as resulting in pressures on the landscape. 

The need to improve the financial viability of Consall Hall Gardens to secure 

retention of parkland. 

Expansion of Leek into sensitive landscapes. 


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Abandonment of the disused army base at Blackshaw Moor. 

Impact of potential future development on local residents and existing visitors. 

Additional visitors may result in increased noise and increased number of vehicles 

on the roads. This could threaten quiet enjoyment of the countryside. 

High levels of car ownership and car use in Staffordshire, which is likely to 

increase and the associated environmental impacts of this and implications for 

the road network in the Churnet Valley. 

Potential cuts to rural bus services and potential issues for securing funding for 

necessary transport maintenance/ improvements. 

Impact of the re-opening of the railway on the existing greenways which are 

used for walking, cycling and horse riding. The section of the former line beyond 

Oakamoor is a double track so provision could potentially be made to retain the 

walking and cycling facility. There is a need for further work to be done to 

understand the implications of the railway proposals. 

The railway was developed in parts over the line of the former Uttoxeter Canal 

therefore there are issues over how to accommodate a restored canal alongside 

any extension of the Churnet Valley Railway. 

Environmental sensitivity of some sites. There are a number of biodiversity sites 

within or in close proximity of the opportunity sites. Whiston Eaves SSSI, Heathy 

Gore SBI and Ahbourne are in the vicinity of Moneystone Quarry. In the Consall 

Hall Gardens area is Dale Sprink Pastures SBI, Churnet Valley SSSI and Consall 

Forge SBI. Close to the Bolton Copperworks, Froghall site is Churnet Valley 

SSSI, Froghall Meadow Pastures, Harston Hill SBI and Froghall Bridge SBI. At 

Alton Towers there is Alton Park SBI and Abbey Wood SBI. The former railway 

line, and therefore in parts the route of the former Uttoxeter Canal, which now 

acts as a greenway from Oakamoor to beyond the District boundary is an SBI 

(Churnet Valley Railway SBI). Soils Wood SBI is adjacent to the railway line at 

Leekbrook. There is a Biodiversity Alert Site in the Cornhill area. 

Closure of Moneystone Quarry and associated job losses.

Masterplan Baseline Report - Staffordshire Moorlands District Council

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Masterplan Baseline Report - Staffordshire Moorlands District Council

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