Plans for new car park on the green belt are refused

PROPOSALS for a car park on the green belt were refused by seven votes to six in the council chamber last night.

Grandpa Greenes, an ice-cream shop in Diggle, applied for change of use of land to build a 24-space car park and a disabled access ramp to be used by its customers.

Rick Scholes, who runs the business with his mother, said this would solve the traffic issues along Ward Lane.

Saddleworth Parish Council recommended refusal, saying the car park will have a detrimental impact on the green belt.

One letter of objection and two letters of support were sent to the council.

Saddleworth Civic Trust said the land proposed for the car park is the only access for emergency services along that stretch of the canal.

Councillors were reminded that building on the green belt can only be done in special circumstances, and some councillors did not believe the plans could be justified. When Councillor Rod Blyth asked what materials would be used Mr Scholes said planings tarmacs. This was deemed harmful to the visual amenities but Mr Scholes said he would work with the council to come to a better solution.

Councillor John McCann said: "I'm surprised Network Rail is not making objections because this is on the access to the railway line.

"I do think making more parking is not a good reason for breaking basic green belt legislation which is what I think you would be doing if you approved it."

However, Councillor Nikki Kirkham disagreed. She said: "Personally I think this is marvellous. It will make an impact on Ward Lane."

Councillor Joy Wrigglesworth said: "I do think we need to protect the green belt. I don't think car parking is a special circumstance.

"If you allow one car park on the green belt we may get a rush of others."

The plan was refused.