I live in Failsworth, an area I have always cherished for its scenic beauty and vibrant community spirit. However, the recent proposal to build houses on our precious greenbelt land is alarming and deeply personal to me. Greenbelt areas not only preserve the character of our neighborhoods but are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting local biodiversity.

Building on these lands will have a detrimental impact on the environment, leading to the loss of vital wildlife habitats and green spaces that provide essential ecosystem services like air purification and carbon sequestration. According to the UK Government’s National Planning Policy Framework, greenbelt lands are designated to prevent urban sprawl and protect the environment. If we continue to encroach upon these areas, we risk losing the very essence of what makes Failsworth special.

Furthermore, the proposed housing development will impose significant stress on our already strained local infrastructure. Our roads, public transport, and healthcare facilities are not equipped to handle a sudden increase in population. Overcrowding could lead to longer commute times, insufficient healthcare access, and a general decline in quality of life for existing residents. A study by Shelter, a leading housing and homelessness charity, shows that building on greenbelt land often fails to meet the affordable housing needs it promises to address.

We should prioritise sustainable development that truly accommodates the needs of our community without compromising our environment. There are numerous brownfield sites that could be developed first, sites that would benefit from the investment and would not require sacrificing our greenbelt. Additionally, implementing stricter regulations on property developers to ensure they contribute to local infrastructure could help mitigate some of the issues we face.

By stopping this development, we are not only preserving Failsworth's greenbelt land but also ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. I urge local authorities and decision-makers to reconsider the proposal and explore alternatives that respect the environment and community needs.

Please sign this petition to help us protect Failsworth's greenbelt land and maintain our town’s unique character and natural beauty.