'Last green space' under threat

OPEN space . . . the view from Cocker Mill Lane

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ANGRY residents have filed objections over plans to build 125 houses on an area of protected land in Shaw.

Locals have branded proposals for Cowlishaw, which include demolishing the abattoir, a "disgrace" and insist their voices will be heard.

Under plans submitted to Oldham Council, the abattoir, other neighbouring buildings and ­- controversially ­- a large amount of green space would all vanish to make room for a new housing estate.

David Healy, of Duncote Grove, said: "If this is protected open land why is this planning application even being considered?

"This proposed estate was turned down in the past, so why is this being attempted again?

"If the object was to try and sneak this in under the radar I am afraid word is out and our voices will be heard."

The resident who lives less than 100 yards from the proposed estate entrance claimed that no notice had been given by the council about the proposal.

He said: "The idea that this whole green area will be turned into one huge estate is abhorrent to me.

"The fact the council is even considering this project is a disgrace.

"More people living in this area will put a huge strain on the road system, strain on schools, doctors and dentists."

Residents were invited to consultation events in February and August, 2015, to discuss the plans to build the mainly detached houses.

At the first meeting, proposals included the dedication of remaining farm land to the council as a 30-acre country park but these were later removed from the scheme.

The controversial plans come as residents try to protect their "last green space" in the area.

Previous reports said that while no public open space is intended, front and rear gardens "of generous size" would be included in the development.

Sheina Burns, of Longfield Road, said: "If this is approved you will be taking away the last of the remaining parts of green and pleasant land.

"Your own council leaflet extols the beauty of the Crompton Circuit, which is part of this land.

"Having the same access and exit road from the proposed estate, onto Cockermill Lane, would create an enormous amount of often possibly stationary traffic in and out of Shaw Road.

"The public were not notified fully about this planning proposal.

"I feel that the whole business has been rather hushed up."

An assessment was carried out by Penny Bennett Landscape Architects of the landscape and visual impacts of the development.

Their report said: "This is one of two Landscape Character Areas (LCA) in Oldham which are important in separating urban areas and they are under pressure from a variety of issues.

"This narrow stretch of countryside is all that separates the two communities at present.

"There could be some positive outcomes with the reinstatement of hedgerows and hedgerow trees across the wider landscape and the removal of the larger scale buildings at Cowlishaw."

Chorlton Planning on behalf of applicants Mr and Mrs Fitton said in the proposals: "The abattoir will be removed from the site and be replaced by low-profile residential development to the benefit of the area.

"The heavy goods vehicles that visit the abattoir will cease to visit the site.

"The development will have little effect on the local distinctiveness of the area, other than to improve it.

"It will provide modern high quality family houses which are much needed in the area."