Plans for 45 homes behind Greenvale unanimously deferred after more than 290 objections

A controversial planning application for 45 homes on land behind Greenvale in Bamford has been unanimously deferred after a packed Planning Committee meeting and more than 290 public objections.

The application had been recommended for approval by planning officers, but strong public interest saw it moved to the first item on the committee agenda.

Claire, chair of Bamford Green Belt Action Group, Dr Barry Lewis and Councillor Steve Anstee addressed the committee, asking councillors either to refuse the proposal or defer a decision while outstanding issues were examined further.

Campaigners raised a wide range of concerns, including the absence of a comprehensive masterplan for the wider allocation of around 450 homes and the lack of an infrastructure phasing and delivery strategy.

Transport was another major issue. Objectors highlighted Transport for Greater Manchester's position that effective transport mitigation could not yet be determined, while concerns were also raised over the proposed access through Greenvale and Norford Way rather than Norden Road.

Existing drainage and pedestrian-safety problems were raised during the meeting. Dr Lewis highlighted drainage issues already experienced on Norford Way and also questioned proposals relating to affordable and social housing beneath power lines.

Environmental concerns included a reported 39 per cent biodiversity net loss, rather than the 10 per cent biodiversity net gain required under current rules. Campaigners also pointed to outstanding concerns from ecology and urban-design officers.

United Utilities was said to have requested an allocation-wide drainage masterplan, while further concerns were raised about design, affordable housing, recreational facilities and the absence of what campaigners considered appropriate pre-application public consultation.

More than 290 objections have been submitted by members of the public.

Following debate, councillors voted unanimously to defer the application until September to allow further work and clarification.

The decision does not amount to a refusal of the proposed development. The application remains live and is expected to return to councillors once the outstanding matters have been considered.

Bamford Green Belt Action Group described the deferral as an important result and thanked residents who attended the meeting, submitted objections or supported the campaign.

Rochdale Daily will report further developments when the application returns to the Planning Committee.