Furious opposition at plans to build 91 homes on countryside land

Controversial plans for a new housing estate in the Hyde green belt have attracted scores of objections.

Metacre Limited has applied to Tameside council to build 91 homes on land at Matley Lane, which is currently open countryside.

The planning statement acknowledges the site is ‘located wholly within the green belt’ and would need very special circumstances to gain planning permission. However the applicant states it would meet an ‘acute local housing need’ and deliver ecological benefits.

“Although the landscape is pleasant in itself and appears to be well used for recreation, the strong visual connectivity with distant Manchester centre and its western settlements influences the character and experience for walkers in this area and prevents a feeling of tranquillity, even on more remote footpaths in the hills,” supporting documents state.

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The plans have so far received an overwhelmingly negative response from residents, with 140 objections compared to one supporting comment.

The proposed development site covers a total of 4.68 hectares and is spread across two parcels; one an irregular shaped area of grassland and the other of a grassy area separated from the main area by a footpath and hedgerow.

Under the proposals there would be 74 properties for market housing, 14 affordable dwellings and space for three self-build units.

Access to the development is proposed to be created from Matley Lane and the north of the site is proposed to be designated for an area of self build homes.

A design and access report by Influence, on behalf of Metacre Ltd, states: “The application presents a scheme that is appropriate to the setting of the site,