Bromley Cross Councillors and Residents Rally Against Proposed Housing Development

In the heart of Bromley Cross, a quiet suburb northwest of Bolton, the air was thick with determination as councillors and residents came together for a vocal protest. Their message was clear: they won't stand idly by while up to 100 new homes threaten the cherished Green Belt land at Tongefields, just beyond Kiln Field on the area's western edge.

The gathering, which drew a crowd passionate about preserving their local environment, unfolded ahead of any formal submission of the outline plans. Local leaders, already briefed on the proposals, wasted no time in voicing their worries. Key concerns ranged from the irreversible loss of green spaces vital for wildlife and recreation to the strain on already stretched local infrastructure like roads and schools. "This isn't just about building houses—it's about protecting the lungs of our community," one resident told the crowd, echoing sentiments shared by many.

Bromley Cross, known for its blend of historic charm and natural beauty, sits within the Greater Manchester area where housing demand is high but Green Belt protections are sacrosanct. These lands, designated to prevent urban sprawl, have long been a buffer against overdevelopment. Yet, with the UK's ongoing housing crisis, developers are eyeing such sites more aggressively. Councillors highlighted that while the need for affordable homes is real, it shouldn't come at the expense of irreplaceable natural assets.

The protest served as a wake-up call, urging planners and developers to reconsider their approach. Residents emphasized alternative solutions, like brownfield redevelopment in urban centers, that could meet housing goals without encroaching on protected areas. As the plans inch closer to submission, the community's resolve appears stronger than ever, promising a fierce battle to safeguard Bromley Cross's green heritage.

For the full story and ongoing updates, check the original reporting from The Bolton News.