OPPOSITION is growing over plans to release 98 acres of green belt for an industrial estate.
As reported in the M.E.N, Salford council wants to use either prime agricultural land or a golf course for the development on the Eccles and Irlam border.
Town hall bosses say that as compensation a similar amount of land in Little Hulton will be put into green belt.
The idea has already been slammed by city Tories. And now Labour supporters are also opposing it.
Roger Jones, a former Labour councillor for Irlam, who is standing for re-election next year, said: “I am totally opposed to this proposal.
“My main objection is that planning approval has already been given to Port Salford, a 268-acre site at Barton and the Salford City Reds stadium development in nearby Barton.”
Salford's planning boss, Coun Derek Antrobus, has said the land is 'essential' to 'ensure future generations have access to decent jobs'.
The Irlam community committee also opposes the plans.
Eddie Sheehy, another former Labour councillor and cabinet member who represented Eccles, has also attacked the plans.
He said: “This is a very short-sighted plan. Salford has a large number of sites designated for light industrial use that are derelict.
“The land the council is proposing to build on is grade one agricultural land and, as such, is some of the best agricultural land in England. The set aside land at Little Hulton does not compare in quality at all.”
“Over the last six years the people of Eccles and Irlam have been working to try and re-establish farming on the Moss.
“Local commerce has also become interested. The Manchester Hoteliers' Association has heard of the local plans and has stated it would like to source food locally.
“The council knows all about this because the reports of the committee went to then local community committees and the council itself. It appears it has ignored the wishes of the local community in rejecting farming in preference to light industry.”
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