The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed an appeal made by the property giant Quorum for a major warehousing site in the heart of the Tame Valley.
In a major victory for campaigners, including Denton and Reddish MP Andrew Gwynne, the inspector declared that the proposed Bredbury Parkway extension would cause ‘harm to the green belt’ that would not be outweighed by any potential benefits.
The decision from the Inspector comes after a public inquiry was held, in which Gwynne acted as a formal rule 6 party. Representations were also made by Denton South Councillors Claire Reid, George Newton and Jack Naylor.
Commenting, Andrew Gwynne said:
“This is such fantastic news. This site would have completely destroyed our Tame Valley, and obliterated the openness and tranquillity of the area.
The Tame Valley is the crown jewel of the constituency I represent, today we have sent a strong message that it is not for sale. Not under any circumstances.
I couldn’t be happier. I would just like to thank Stockport Council, for putting forward such a robust case on why the appeal should be refused, as well as Councillors Claire Reid, George Newton and Jack Naylor for their representations.
I would also like to thank the children of Russell Scott Primary School and Steve Marsland for their incredibly moving testimonies to the public inquiry.
Finally, I would like to thank Nick Fenwick at Tameside Council for his incredible support during the process, and for his expert advice.
This is a victory for everyone across Denton and Reddish, and I am grateful to all the local residents who made representations to the Inquiry. It shows that people can and do make a difference. I plan on celebrating with a lovely walk in the valley this weekend with my family.
The Tame Valley is ours.”
In a joint statement, Denton South Cllrs Claire Reid, Jack Naylor and George Newton said:
“We’re over the moon at the decision of the Inspector to throw out the monstrous proposal to concrete over the greenbelt.
The Tame Valley is so important, both to us personally and to the people of Denton South.
After a very long process, and one in which the support from the residents has been steadfast, the proposal to bulldoze the Tame Valley is finally dead and buried.
We would like to thank the Inspector for listening to our arguments – and for reaching the right decision – and of course our community, without whom this victory would not have been possible.”
To read the Inspector’s findings in full, click here.
WATCH: It’s Education Questions and I’ve again raised the plight of 
READ: In this week's edition of the 
