One of the largest pieces of open land within
the town is up for sale. The land is located
beside Hall Hill and between Henshall Road, Moss Lane, Lowerhouse
and behind the properties in Albert Road. It is presently owned
by Messrs H Cumberbirch & Son
Ltd. and others. The Civic Society understands that it has
been opened to offers from the development industry and that
there is plenty of interest. There is only one reason why a
developer would want to acquire it.
The land has been derelict for some decades and has been unofficially
used as a recreational resource for which it is ideally suited.
It extends across the hillside with fine views to the north.
It is about 9 acres (c.4 hectares) in size. It is scheduled
for planning purposes as Green Belt.
At one time planning permission was given to build on the
land but this has long since expired. According to the
Borough Local Plan published in 2004 and still extant the land
is designated as Open Space, policy RT6(9) applies, and it
has the additional designation of a Nature Conservation Priority
Area, policy NE16 appplies. James Bagley
is the Environment Officer responsible.
On Watch!
The Civic Society will keep a close watch on this piece of
land. The local community should be prepared to organise their
opposition to any proposal that doesn't meet with their approval.
The Civic Society can advise on what needs to be done. We also
hope that the Town Plan group will consider the possibilities.
Now would be a good time to let the Civic Society know of
your interest in this case so that we can inform each other
when relevant information comes to light. Please email
Tim Boddington now.
Tim Boddington is the Happy Valley webmaster and Vice Chairman
of Bollington Civic Society with a special responsibility for
planning matters.
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