Controversial planning application for development in Littleborough passed

The proposed development of 110 homes off New Street

The highly controversial planning application for the development of 110 houses on land off New Road, Littleborough was passed at the Planning & Licensing Committee meeting on Monday 5 December.

Russell Homes applied to build 110 three to five bedroom family homes on an 18 acre site between the Thamin and Stubley Hall. Access to the site will be off New Road. The site is within a flood zone so the central part of the site will be raised and flood attenuation ponds created.

At the meeting, at Number One Riverside, councillors voted in favour of planning officers recommendation that planning permission be granted despite the very strong opposition from Littleborough residents and councillors.

Local residents are concerned about increased traffic on the A58, loss of the protected open space, impact on wildlife and the risk of flooding.

James Rothwell, spokesperson for StopRussellHomes, a group formed to try and prevent the development, said prior to the meeting that the group objected to the proposal because it represents a significant departure from the local development plan and planning officers have not provided evidence to demonstrate that the criteria to justify granting permission have been met.

Following the meeting, Councillor Ashley Dearnley told Rochdale Online he was very disappointed with the decision, he said: "Very disappointed there were very strong reasons for refusing and sad that the Committee did not listen to common sense.

"We will face more congestion, a greater risk of flooding and a loss of vital green open land.

"A sad day."

Councillor Ann Stott JP, added: "I voted against this planning application as I have severe misgivings about it, with particular reference to flooding and traffic issues.

"Since Boxing Day there have been considerable flooding issues across the Borough, and indeed in my own ward, Littleborough Lakeside, in the last couple of weeks these arose again.

"With this particular site, its gradient, and from water having been seen to visibly gather in pools towards the bottom, and existing properties on New Street having the same issues in their gardens, I fear that flooding will be inevitable – although the developers assure us differently.

"Traffic is also a problem, and everyone who uses the A58 between Littleborough and Rochdale in particular are aware of its constant congestion on a daily basis, without, on frequent occasions, the additional problem of the M62 being closed due to incidents – then the whole area really does grind to a halt. Another 110 dwellings will only swell the traffic flow, and I do not follow the rationale of a right turn to ease congestion.

"Additionally, there is the proposal to re-site the bus stop, nearer to its original position, where it was deemed to be a safety hazard some time ago hence its move.

"Additionally, [the development is] in close proximity is Stubley Old Hall, of significant heritage, but, overlooked.

"This area, again, is an open space which, once built upon, cannot be reclaimed."

Councillor Rina Paolucci-Escobar said: “I am deeply saddened by the decision to approve the housing development. I believe it is the wrong location to build upon and will have serious adverse implications to open green space, increased traffic congestion and in particular risk of flooding in the area. The development will have a huge knock on effect to everyone in the Littleborough area, including residents, businesses and tourism.

“The decision came as a shock as residents and ward councillors raised valid concerns regarding the criteria for building on green space not being met and damage being caused to local heritage.

“The need for building houses in desirable areas is outweighing common sense.”

Simon France, of Littleborough Local, said: "I am very disappointed that the Council has approved this development. I understand that the Council has housing targets to meet but there are surely more suitable sites in the Rochdale borough."