21st October 2025
Stockport Council’s Planning Enforcement Officer, Lisa McGrane, has issued an update following continuing public concern about rubbish and activity on the protected Padden Brook W1 woodland site in Romiley.
In her response to local residents, Ms McGrane confirmed that she had carried out a site visit immediately upon receiving the latest complaint. She stated that this was “one of many site visits to Padden Brook” undertaken as part of the Council’s ongoing monitoring of the area.
Addressing specific concerns raised about new gate posts installed at the site, Ms McGrane explained that while the posts are not illegal, their height of 1.3 metres exceeds the permitted development limit. “If Mr Hall chooses to reduce them from 1.3 to 1 metre, it would be classed as permitted development,” she noted. The landowner, Mr Hall, now intends to submit a retrospective planning application, which the Council will assess in due course. Should the application be refused, Ms McGrane confirmed that “the posts will be reduced in height.”
In conclusion, Ms McGrane reaffirmed her commitment to overseeing the planning aspects of the site. “As a planning enforcement officer, I can only deal with any planning breach,” she said.
The Council will continue to monitor the site while awaiting the outcome of Mr Hall’s forthcoming planning application.
Residents are encouraged to report any further environmental or wildlife concerns to Stockport Council’s Planning Enforcement Team.
