Developer Peel Land has launched a second public consultation on the Gibfield Park masterplan, which proposes building over 173 acres of green land between Atherton and Westhoughton. The six-week consultation, starting July 21, invites the community to comment on the revised vision.
Revised masterplan reduces warehouse space
Following feedback from an earlier consultation, Peel Land has reduced the designated warehouse space from around 490,000 sq ft to 375,000 sq ft. The changes also remove development from an area near existing housing and introduce more green spaces.
The amended proposals include an additional five-acre green corridor adjacent to properties on Wigan Road and Schofield Lane, with more trees and ecological improvements. This is in addition to the previously proposed 72-acre country park.
First phase: Gibfield Meadows
Peel Land is also seeking views on the first phase, 'Gibfield Meadows', which would deliver 170 new homes—25% of them affordable—in the south-eastern part of the development. This phase includes a public play park, early delivery of the green corridor, and contributions to health needs and school places.
The 10-year vision for Gibfield Park includes a total of 550 homes, industrial warehouses, and improved road connections, including the extension of Gibfield Park Way.
Community concerns
Amanda Coleman, chair of Gibfield Preservation Group, which opposes the plan, urged residents to take part in the consultation. She said: "This is one of the last remaining green spaces in the area and the decisions made now will shape the future of Atherton for generations to come."
Coleman added that members fear development could permanently alter the natural environment and reduce biodiversity. She said insufficient attention has been given to the cumulative impact of major developments across the wider area, including schemes in Westhoughton, Hindley and Leigh.
Next steps
Following the consultation, feedback will be reviewed as Peel Land prepares the outline planning application for Phase 1. Future phases would be subject to separate applications and further consultation.
The consultation runs until September 1, with an online survey at www.gibfieldpark.co.uk. A drop-in event will be held on July 28 at Howe Bridge Leisure Centre (2pm–5pm), and a public webinar on August 4 (6pm–7pm).
