Firm hits back at critics of homes plans
ABUILDING firm has hit back at criticism of a planned 119 home development scheme.
Gleeson Homes had controversial plans to build the homes on the former Spring Mill site in Whitworth, approved in September despite 200 objections.
A statement from a residents’ group has now reiterated their opposition to the scheme.
John Newcombe, on behalf of Prickshaw and Broadley Fold Conservation Area, said: “Despite overwhelming objection and no support for this development, the application was approved.” He also said he believed there could be an issue with chemical contamination of the land.
Mr Newcombe added: “Access to the site is a single route through Wallbank from Market Street and access to Market Street is already bad. This development will exacerbate the problem - the added pressure on schools, surgeries, dental practices with a population increase of 400 is untenable.
“Rossendale [has ignoring the wishes of the people it serves] by trivialising numerous and very serious planning concerns.”
He added: “The time to act and stop this development is now.”
But a spokesman from Gleeson said: “Gleeson’s approval for 119 much needed low cost homes is aimed particularly at first time buyers and those on low incomes who would ordinarily struggle to purchase a new home.
“The site, which is located within the urban boundary of Rossendale Borough Council, is identified within the emerging local plan as a residential housing allocation and has, in part, held previous approvals for residential use.
“All planning matters, including both environmental health and highways have been carefully assessed by planning officers and members in reaching the decision to approve the application.
“On-going site survey work has been carried out in order to satisfy conditions attached to the planning permission.
“It is not true that Gleeson has ‘misled’ the public by releasing ‘toxicity reports’ after permission was granted.
“The permission was granted subject to conditions requiring intrusive ground investigations and remediation strategies to be submitted to the Council for their approval; Gleeson has simply done exactly this, which is a completely typical occurrence in the planning process.
“Gleeson look forward to commencing the development which will bring significant investment to the area including contributions of £280,000 towards primary school education, provision for Public Open Space (POS) and a LEAP, (Local Equipped Area for Play).
“This, along with numerous employment opportunities that will be created for local people and businesses.
“In 2018, Gleeson was voted the most sustainable business in the UK at the National PLC Awards where judges recognised the good work that Gleeson is doing in the community as well as its use of sustainable materials.”