'Destructive' plan for 120 homes prompts outcry

FLETCHER'S Mill, Greenfield

THE decision to create homes and holiday houses in Greenfield was criticised as "destructive" and a "stitch-up" by residents.

The Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) proposals include plans to create around 100 holiday lodges and 120 new homes at the former Robert Fletcher's Paper Mill, associated buildings and surrounding land close to Dovestone Reservoir.

The GMSF report states the area "presents a strategic and unique opportunity for Oldham and Greater Manchester for tourism and leisure uses and to enhance visitor attractions and destinations within the sub-region" with the additional housing element also providing "a range of high quality housing in an attractive and desirable rural location".

However, residents and local community groups have criticised the proposals and believe there are alternative areas which should have been considered for development before the greenbelt land.

Oldham resident Richard Wright said: "I am deeply shocked the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework is being presented as a 'consultation'.

"All of the other proposals for possible sites put forward by all developers in the region have been reviewed and eliminated behind closed doors.

"The GMSF is therefore 'the plan', a choice of one. For example at the Dovestone Robert Fletcher site this is the only plan for new development.

"All of the greenbelt loss is being shouldered by one village ­- Greenfield. So the GMSF appears to be a stitch-up from the outset."

He added that many believe the cost of developing on green belt land when compared with clearing brownfield sites is a large part of the decision.

Chunks

"Huge chunks of greenbelt is being lost for one reason only ­- it is more profitable," he said.

"Clearing brownfield sites are more expensive so developers would prefer not to. Everyone knows there is abundant brownfield and greenfield space for housing without destroying huge tracts of greenbelt."

He said a strategic plan for the area is a good idea but it should not have a negative impact on natural resources or infrastructure.

Mr Wright said: "We need new housing and yes some green space will need to be found.

"But the scale of greenbelt destruction particularly in the Dovestone area, which is right next to the Peak District National Park, will destroy a valuable natural resource for everybody.

"Less valuable brown and green spaces can and must be found and alternative plans must be put to consultation. The scale of Green Belt destruction proposed at this site would be an environmental disaster."