Campaigners celebrate as woodland homes plan pulled

Campaigners are celebrating after controversial plans to build new homes on woodland – described as a ‘haven’ for wildlife – were withdrawn.

There were more than 120 objections to Janet Pink’s application to build four detached properties at  5,343 square metre site adjacent to Ashdene, in Healey.

The site, off Burwell Close,  is entirely covered by a tree preservation order (TPO) due to being situated within a conservation area.

And opponents of the scheme estimated that  some 60 trees would be lost had the plans been given the green light by Rochdale Council planning chiefs.

They raised concerns over a resultant loss of habitat for species ranging from owls, bats and badgers, to deer, foxes, and swallows.

A design and access statement submitted in support of the application said the scheme was designed to be sympathetic to the surrounding environment and protect the privacy of neighbouring properites.

But objectors said the development would have an unacceptable impact on the character of the area.

They said:  “I have concerns that there is a very rural feel to this area that will be spoiled due to this development.

“It will involve removing large and beautiful trees that add to the feel of my property. When in my garden me and my children feel a part of the countryside and enjoy watching the various birds in the trees, and the way the seasons affect them. 

“I feel that four properties on this land will give the area the feel of a housing estate.”

A fellow opponent of the scheme said: “The impact of this proposed development would result in the removal of a vast amount of trees in order to make room for the executive housing proposed, along with their gardens and driveways.

“This appears to me a simple case of landowners/developers trying to make a quick buck.”

Another did not hold back with their thoughts, branding the application a ‘disgraceful proposal’ which would see a the destruction of a beautiful woodland which is home to ‘many protected species’.

Healey ward councillor Kieran Heakin has hailed campaigners efforts in the wake of the application being withdrawn.

He said: “It was nice to see the voice of the people.

“They were very organised and I was able to help them, that’s what we are there for as councillors, and they were delighted.”

However,  Coun Heakin did warn residents that they may not have heard the last of the matter.

He said: “The applicant may well put in another application, but they can’t put the same application in again, it will have to be reduced.

“Destroying trees and woodland is not caring for the environment or future generations who who will want woodland there.”

He also praised leading campaigner Kate Robinson’s ‘meticulous approach’ to opposing the scheme.

“She truly believed it would be a loss to the neighbourhood, the environment and the people who live there. That’s why she was quite animated over it and the group was so well organised.

“The campaigners were very clever, putting notices on lampposts in the surrounding area  so people were made aware. It was great teamwork.”

Mrs Pink has been contacted for comment via her agent.

Nick Statham, Local Democracy Reporter