In July, Barbara presented a petition to the House of Commons signed by nearly 4000 residents of Irlam, Cadishead and Barton who are opposed to proposals to develop Greenbelt land at Barton (Irlam ward).

The petition stated that the residents of Irlam, Cadishead and Barton strongly oppose the proposals of Peel Holdings to build up to 1,400 houses as well as warehouses in the Greenbelt area at Barton (Irlam ward), which is bound by the M62 (North), A57 (South), Manchester City Airport (East) and Irlam (West); and believe that Boysnope Golf Course should not be shut down as it is an excellent leisure facility for the local community.             The Petitioners requested that the House of Commons does all in its power to prevent this development proposal from taking place.

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government has now responded to the petition with the following observation:

“This Government continue to attach great importance to green belt as a way to prevent sprawl and encroachment on open countryside, and as a vital ‘green lung’ for many communities. The framework makes clear that openness and permanence are essential characteristics of green belt. It also states that inappropriate development should not be permitted there except in very special circumstances.”

Barbara said:

“I was pleased to present this petition to the House of Commons on behalf of the residents of Irlam, Cadishead and Barton. This petition shows that local people value our Greenbelt land and feel very strongly that they do not want to see this land developed.

“I share the concerns of local people. I have campaigned for years to protect the Greenbelt and greenfield land in Worsley and Eccles South and I will continue to do so.

“I am calling on Salford City Council to continue to respect this area of Greenbelt land and for Planning Inspectors and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles to reflect on the importance of the Greenbelt in any future Planning Appeals.”