7th January 2026
A long-standing local campaigner has written to the Leader of Stockport Council raising renewed concerns about planning governance, transparency, and enforcement, particularly in relation to Padden Brook.
In an email copied to politicians across parties, Sheila Oliver says she is in the process of disclosing historic correspondence dating back to 2007 which she believes highlights serious failings in planning decision-making. She says the material spans many years and involves communications with senior figures at local and national level.
Ms Oliver also raises concerns about the Council’s response to formal complaints and statutory requests. She claims that recent Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Regulation requests have gone unanswered, including correspondence addressed to the Council’s Monitoring Officer.
In the email, Ms Oliver asks the Council Leader to investigate whether a residential property at 1a Magda Road, off Dialstone Lane, has the necessary planning permission. She says she has been unable to locate any relevant consent on the public planning register and has requested clarification.
Ms Oliver states that she has previously provided evidence relating to planning concerns to senior Liberal Democrat figures, including Sir Ed Davey and Tim Farron, but says no action was taken.
Calling for greater accountability, she has asked the Council Leader to review planning enforcement at Padden Brook, examine the handling of statutory information requests, and take steps to restore public confidence in the Council’s planning processes.
Stockport Council has been contacted for comment.
