Residents in Bury have voiced strong opposition to plans that would see more than 400 new homes built on green belt land in their town. The proposals involve developing nearly 43 hectares of land, currently used for horse grazing, into 403 properties comprising houses, bungalows and flats.
Locals insist the scheme "should not go ahead" and are calling on the developers to reconsider. The planning application, submitted by Wain Homes, includes building on farmland at the edge of Unsworth in Bury, covering fields between Castle Road and Griffe Lane, just off the M66.
Developer's plans and council submission
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the developer said the land forms part of the Northern Gateway area, which has been allocated for housing and industrial development through the Places for Everyone plan. The allocation has seen large amounts of countryside removed from the green belt to allow building work to proceed.
The proposal, submitted to Bury Council, is split into two parts. Full planning permission is being sought for 283 properties, which will occupy around three-quarters of the site, while the developer is also seeking outline permission for the remaining 120 homes.
Affordable housing and public reaction
Documents show around 100 of the proposed properties would be classed as "affordable", split between "affordable" rent and homes to buy at discounted rates. The full details of the proposal will be submitted and judged at a later date.
Bury locals have reacted to the plan on social media, taking to Facebook to express their fury. Harvie Gemmell wrote: "This scheme should NOT go ahead - save Bury!!!!!!" David Ives replied: "Don't vote Labour, it really is that simple."
The Labour Party holds a majority of 51 seats on Bury Council, maintaining control after the May 2026 local elections, with Eamonn O'Brien leading the council. Ted Holden wrote: "Now they build on the green fields, later the same politicians will be crying out for green fields to relax in." Karl Spence put: "Rest in peace wildlife."
Victoria Hughes said: "And they wonder why weather is changing air quality is bad we need trees green spaces this council this government are ridiculous they need getting rid of."
