By Andrew Gwynne MP
WE have received the fantastic news that the Planning Inspectorate had rejected Quorum’s appeal to extend the Bredbury Industrial estate deep into the Tame Valley.
For context, this appeal was heard in a Public Inquiry after Stockport Council rejected the proposal of a large warehousing site, which would have destroyed the openness of the Tame Valley, as well as the tranquillity of the area.
I took part in the Public Inquiry that heard the appeal and acted as an official party to proceedings. This was an incredibly time consuming and nerve-racking experience.
I was cross-examined by the developer’s lawyers who went over my evidence with a fine-toothed comb and spent many evenings poring over the developer’s case.
I’m not a lawyer and it’s not an experience that I would repeat in a hurry, but it is something that was entirely worth it to protect our Tame Valley.
Over the course of the Inquiry, we heard from several local residents, including Denton South Councillors’ Claire Reid, Jack Naylor and George Newton. They made such a strong case against the development, and really amplified the voices of communities right across Tameside.
This result, then, is a vindication for local residents. It shows that no matter how much cash is thrown in our direction and no matter how many big shots lawyers Quorum hire, we will not give up our vital green space for a speculative and damaging development.
The Tame Valley is a gift, it was earmarked for recreational land use back in the 1980s by what was then called the Greater Manchester Council.
It was specifically developed because of a lack of green space in a heavily urbanised community.
It needs to be protected, not only for our own benefit, but also for the benefit of generations to come.
I grew up wondering around the Tame Valley, I know it like the back of my hand. I have explored it countless times with my kids, and now do the same with my grandson.
I know that I am not alone in holding it very close to my heart.
I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took part in the Inquiry, and who provided me with invaluable support during my testimony.
We have taken a stand for our local community and proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that our Tame Valley is not – and never will be – for sale.