Clash over plans for new homes in garden

NEIGHBOURS have clashed over controversial plans to build two large houses in the garden of an existing home.

The proposal, for Higher Arthurs in Greenfield, has met fierce opposition from residents — who fear the new houses will create traffic problems.

But applicants Mary and Michael Booth argue building the two semi-detached houses between their home, Glenwood, and the neighbouring property Sherwood, will use land always intended for development. Their next door neighbour hasn’t objected.

Oldham Council planning committee has approved outline plans for the development.

Residents complained the new homes would bring extra vehicles to a narrow road and restricting emergency service vehicles. They hired planning consultant Alan Chorlton to represent their bid to get the application rejected.

Mr Chorlton said: “It is not sympathetic to the layout, it is obstructive and there are already 10 properties on the single track access road. Two more will make a bad situation much worse. Enough is enough.”

He told the Evening Chronicle: “There is a big gap between Glenwood and Sherwood on purpose - to emphasise the importance of those houses.

“What is being proposed will fill the space between those houses and will create an unbalanced, cramped development.”

Saddleworth Parish Council had recommended refusal of the plans, but a highways officer said more cars wouldn’t have an effect significant enough to warrant refusal.

The land surrounding the houses is currently protected by covenants prohibiting the construction of homes within the gardens. The planning approval doesn’t overrride such covenants, and the landowners now have to get approval from Government.