‘Village green’ battle lost

RESIDENTS have lost their battle to save a “village green” near their homes on the Shaw Road estate in Derker.

Oldham Planning Committee has approved proposals to build 13 houses on the land, despite strong objections from Mortimer Street residents, whoi claimed new housing would overcrowd the area.

The land they call their village green is used for play and dog walking.

Planners and the housing association Guinness Northern Counties said the open space was of “poor quality” and “poorly maintained” and that safe play is still available nearby