A new council plan has been agreed this month by council bosses to build 165,000 homes across Greater Manchester which will take place over 15 years.
The modifications were approved by the Wigan Council, which is part of a larger plan called Places For Everyone, designed to maximise affordable living and accommodation, as concluded following an 8-month examination by government inspectors in the area. The modifications and work is expected to start as early as October this year.
The primary adjustments to the proposal encompass alterations to housing development boundaries and the exclusion of the North of Irlam Station location, which will inevitably lead to a reduction in the surrounding green belt land.
The Salford-based site initially intended to accommodate approximately 800 residences was ultimately deemed too disadvantageous to greenfield areas.
In a focused effort to safeguard green belt land, the boundaries of the Timperley Wedge, initially prepared for 1,700 homes, and Elton Reservoir, designated for 3,500 homes, were modified accordingly.
Several other developments underwent boundary modifications without a change in their scale. These include Simister and Bowlee (1,250 homes), Broadbent Moss (1,450 homes and employment space), South of Rosary Road (60 homes), Land at Hazelhurst Farm (450 homes), South of Hyde (440 homes).
Additional revisions to the plan were of a non-substantive nature, aimed at enhancing the clarity and consistency of policy language throughout the proposal.
The developments follow an intense 8-month investigation carried out by the council and issues identified with the land and surrounding area. Amidst a housing crisis, the development of 165,000 homes will be welcomed by locals and young families and highlights the increased confidence amongst landlords and investors.
Approval of these amendments now rests with the remaining seven councils within Greater Manchester before consultation can commence. Stockport, however, stands as the lone borough excluded from the Places for Everyone plan, having withdrawn due to concerns regarding its impact on the green belt.
Notably, there were no physical alterations made to the plan for the Wigan sites, as highlighted during the meeting on September 28. These sites earmarked for development encompass the logistics park at M6 Junction 25, featuring 1,050 homes North of Mosley Common, 600 homes and 15,000 sqm of employment space at Pocket Nook, and 500 homes at Gibfield West.
