Residents ‘sickened’ as 30-home Tonge Fold plan approved

The application, submitted by Be One Homes, will see 30 affordable houses built on land behind Doris Avenue despite strong opposition from nearby residents who raised concerns about contamination, subsidence and the loss of wildlife habitat.

Members of Bolton Council‘s Planning Committee voted to approve the scheme on June 18, citing the borough’s pressing need for affordable housing.

However, residents living closest to the site say their fears have been overlooked.

Jenny Young, of Doris Avenue, said: “The land is not suitable for dwellings.

“It’s disgraceful.

“It just seems like they don’t care a damn for residents and just want to stick up houses and get money for it.

“It sickens me. It honestly makes my blood boil.”

Fly-tipping on the land (Image: Jenny Young)

Residents claim the site has a long history of fly-tipping.

Opponents of the scheme had previously submitted a petition to the council objecting to the plans.

(Image: Jenny Young)

The same resident added: “If this development goes ahead, householders need assurance in writing that adequate compensation will be available should any damage occur to our properties.

Many objectors also questioned why green space was being targeted when other brownfield sites across the borough remain undeveloped.

“Whilst I appreciate there is a need for housing, it should not be at the expense of a rich wildlife habitat and profit should not come first,” said Ms Young.

“What about brownfield sites where buildings have been demolished and are lying idle? Developing those sites would revitalise urban areas and prevent the loss of natural habitats.”

Residents worry about the uneven land (Image: Jenny Young)

At the planning meeting, Cllr Martin Donaghy, representing Tonge with The Haulgh ward, spoke against the application on behalf of residents, although he is not a member of the planning committee.

Despite the objections, councillors voted to approve the plans, with the need for affordable housing carrying significant weight in the decision.

The development will now move forward, although many residents of Doris Avenue say they remain deeply concerned about its potential impact on their homes and the surrounding environment.