Almost 100 residents object to plans to 'bulldoze' green space for housing

Plans to 'bulldoze' green space in Salford to make way for housing have been opposed by nearly 100 neighbours.

Residents say the scheme is simply 'not suitable' for the site in Walkden.

A total of five terraced houses - all 'affordable' - and 12 specialist supported living apartments for adults with learning disabilities are planned.

READ MORE: Next phase of £1billion development in Salford set to be approved

Salford council agreed to sell the land between Crosby Avenue and Crompton Street which is 'well used' by dog walkers to housing association Great Places.

But residents have raised concerns about the loss of recreational land and a new access road which they claim will cause 'chaos' on the narrow street.

Stuart Wharton, who has lived in the area since the 1980s, remembers playing football on the green space – but the grass has grown too long for sports now.

The 44-year-old who lives with his wife and two young children says private homeowners in the area will be the 'biggest losers' from the development.

He said: "We're in an area where there's been a lot of housing developments.

"It's great to have a bit of space.

"If you try to build this in Worsley or Roe Green, there's plenty of examples where people resist this type of development.

"It does seem Walkden is a bit of an easy target."

Brian Farrow, an 80-year-old who has lived locally most of his life, dislikes the designs which he says 'bear no relation' to other homes in the neighbourhood.

He said the green space has been 'very, very well used' by the public since he has lived in the area and it was 'absolutely fantastic' during the first lockdown.

The Crosby Avenue resident has also complained about a 'pathetic' lack of communication from the council