Plans for 70 homes on Rochdale’s oldest farm given go ahead

Proposals to build 70 homes on what may be Rochdale’s oldest farm have been given the green light by council planning chiefs despite fierce opposition from councillors and members of the public.

The history of Dean Farm in Balderstone can be traced back more than 400 years – but the plans, drawn up by Manchester-based Nexus Planning, will see the land covered by housing and it is feared could create a flood risk to current residents of the area.

Rochdale Council’s planning department received more than 15 objections to the scheme, including a letter from council leader Richard Farnell who objected on the grounds of over development, access and drainage.

One resident who contacted the council to object, Antony O’Neill of nearby Gilbrook Way, wrote: “There is already a distinct lack of open space in Rochdale. We should be doing our best to protect for future generations.”

Others complained that flooding is already an issue in the area and, by building on the land, they fear the issue of drainage will get worse.