Lib Dems row over housing development proposal

A row has broken out between Lib Dem Councillors over the sale of land owned by the Council at Woodbine Street, Rochdale.

Council officers, backed by regeneration portfolio holder, Councillor Mohammad Sharif, are seeking to sell the land to Great Places Housing Group for a fee of just £1. However, Councillor Sharif's Lib Dem colleague, Councillor Jean Ashworth says she is "disgusted" with the recommendation. Councillor Ashworth is joined in her objection by Kingsway ward councillor, David Clayton who has promised to help local residents fight the proposal.

The district valuer has valued the land at £37,000 but council officers do not expect they could find a buyer on the open market in the current economic climate and are seeking to justify the bargain basement give away on the grounds that "the development of the site for housing will contribute to the regeneration of the area".

Councillor Sharif argues that the land will become a "rubbish tip" if it is not developed. 

A petition signed by 55 local people from the surrounding streets objecting to the development.

Councillor Ashworth added: "It is wrong to cater just for the Asian community." Councillor Ashworth also complained vehemently that local residents have not been properly consulted.