Housing fears raised over green belt site

VILLAGERS have been warned of the threat from a “significant development” in a conservation area in green belt land.

Oldham councillor Derek Heffernan believes Denshaw could be the target of a planning application by developers to build a 21-house estate in the village centre.

Residents heard Councillor Heffernan outline the controversial plan for 15 three-bed and six two-bed houses on the sloping site opposite Denshaw bus terminus in Rochdale Road.

Though the land is protected, he suggested the developer might take advantage of a recent relaxation of planning rules.

“If it were to be approved, it could set a huge precedent for other Saddleworth sites,” said the parish councillor. “I have always been opposed to developing green belt land and I would urge locals to object to this plan in the strongest terms.”

The outline planning application would first be considered by Saddleworth Parish Council, which will pass its recommendation to Oldham planning committee.

A council spokesman confirmed no application had so far been received