The first phase of a major 450-home development in Rochdale is set to be given the go-ahead later this week. Some 45 homes could be built on a parcel of land off Greenvale in the Bamford area, if the council's planning committee grants approval. This would be the first of 450 houses earmarked for Bamford by developers Wain Homes.
Details of the proposal
The new 'high quality' family homes would have a mix of two, three, four and five bedrooms, with access onto Greenvale. In order to facilitate the development, the proposal would need to demolish Chadwick Farm Barn on Greenvale. In its place a T-junction would provide vehicle access to the site.
Six of the 45 homes would be made available for affordable or social rent (up to 80 per cent of market value). As part of the wider scheme, the local sports pitches would be kept and improved with a new road and footpath network being built throughout the new neighbourhood.
Wider context and objections
The wider housing development forms part of the Places for Everyone (PfE) plan, which is a joint development plan for nine Greater Manchester districts to build thousands of new homes and jobs in the city region over the next two decades.
This first phase plan has sparked controversy locally. More than 300 objections have been raised with the council over this scheme. Concerns raised by objectors include increased traffic congestion; safety of the planned T-junction; not enough affordable homes locally; and the fact they are developing on former green belt land.
Recommendation and decision
Planning papers read: “The proposed development would deliver a range of high quality, high specification homes for the local community in a sustainable location.” Despite local concerns, planning officers at the local authority have recommended the scheme for approval. The planning committee will meet on August 5 in Number One Riverside to decide on the matter.
