Green space is saved thanks to people power

PEOPLE power won the day when Waterhead residents were able to save a much-loved piece of green space.

A total of 16 letters were received by Oldham Council in objection to an application from K Witerbottom Discretionary Trust Whitehead for five houses off Moordale Avenue, in Waterhead.

The application was called in to the Planning Committee by ward councillor Peter Dean, who spoke against the proposal, which is on green land next to the Green Belt.

Explaining the history of the site, Councillor Dean said that the land had been informally left as a green space.

Village

He said: "This was land that contributed to the village of Waterhead. It's still a village. We still want it to be a village and it feels like a village.

"On three occasions over the last 18 months I have received petitions and representations on traffic problems in this area. It's difficult enough for large vehicles to get up Moorland Avenue now."

Furthermore, there is an agricultural tenancy agreement on the land and rent is paid for its use. This tenancy does not allow the land to be developed and indicates that it should remain in agricultural use.

There have been a number of recent instances of surface water flooding in the area.

Also objecting to the proposal was resident Ruth Bagley, who cited the loss of wildlife as well as parking concerns on the steep slope leading to the site.

Representing the applicant was Alan Doherty, from Whittaker Design.

He said: "It's a very small development of five houses.

"We consider the existing roadway and proposed roadway to be built as perfectly capable of taking a small increase in traffic."

Councillor John Hudson said: "I'm well aware of the need in this metropolitan borough and others about building houses but I genuinely don't think the benefits of these five houses will outweigh the loss of green space."

Speak

Councillor Steve Bashforth said that the council is currently on target with its housebuilding programme and there was no great need for this type of development.

He added: "If this goes to appeal I will put myself forward to speak."

Councillors were reminded that the green space unallocated land and this would not be enough to refuse the application.

However, the planning committee refused the application ­- with two voting against refusal.