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Lib Dems row over housing development proposal
Date published: 03 February 2010
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.
Comments
I agree wholeheartedy this area is already overdeveloped. To cater for one section of the community does not encourage integation and, as Jean has said, is wrong. Then they wonder why people are resentful.
The residents should be able to buy the land for the same £1 the council think its worth, and use it for the REAL benefit of them all, not this 'we know what's best for you' attitude.
"Planned specifically for the ethnic minorities to move into".
Rochdale Online who actually said this? The article isn't clear about this. I wonder if this a Lib Dem ploy to win back disenchated white voters.
Hi Sharon,
The quote is attributed to the residents about ‘concerns’ that Asian people will move in to the area.
From what I understand Great Places aim is to help members of all ethnicities, which include ethnic minorities.
If the new houses are blocked because there is no space for parking, etc. then I agree, but to turn this into an 'Asian' argument, as Jean Ashworth is doing, will only rile up tensions.
Check out the company who are being offered the land for £1.
Stephen Porter
Chief executive
Stephen is an influential figure in housing and regeneration. Under his leadership, Great Places has become renowned for its tenacity and integrity. The organisation has grown and flourished to become one of the north west’s most successful housing associations - a top performer nationally.
Matthew Harrison
Deputy chief executive and director of development.
Matthew, a chartered surveyor, masterminds Great Places’ impressive development programme, valued at £140m. He has vast experience in urban regeneration and led on many iconic developments.
Hardly the need for cut price land!
"If the new houses are blocked because there is no space for parking, etc. then I agree, but to turn this into an 'Asian' argument, as Jean Ashworth is doing, will only rile up tensions."
This is unfair on Jean Ashworth, I believe it was specified the houses would be for the Asian community.
Well done Jean for speaking out! It is all supposed to be about equality isn't it?
As a Conservative, I've tactically voted in local elections to keep Labour out. Years ago we got rid of Richard Farnell and his cronies. Now we have divisions within the local Liberal Democrat party based upon personal agendas and vested interests. What a political sham of a town we've become.
Have Your Say
I live on Woodbine Street and have done for nearly 10 years. Like Sharon said, the traffic and parking is already a big problem, so how can another 27 houses AND their vehicles possibly benefit all us residents?
The land should be cleaned up and made safe, for us residents.
It's so annoying when you think how many times this has probably happened before and nobody noticed.
By debbie @ 03/02/2010 23:31:50