Key Points
- Oakmere Homes has submitted plans to build 86 homes on a 10-acre site off Tongfields in Bromley Cross, Bolton.
- The site is currently designated as Green Belt land.
- Oakmere claims the land meets the definition of “Grey Belt” according to the 2024 version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
- The planning statement submitted with the application states the land is used for growing grass harvested for hay twice a year.
- The proposal has sparked debate over Green Belt protections and local development pressures.
What Are Oakmere Homes’ Plans for the Bromley Cross Site?
Oakmere Homes has lodged a planning application to construct 86 new homes on a 10-acre plot located off Tongfields in Bromley Cross, Bolton. The land in question is currently classified as Green Belt, which is protected under national planning policy to prevent urban sprawl and preserve open spaces. As reported by Sarah Thompson of the Bolton News, Oakmere Homes stated in their planning statement that the site “meets the definition of grey belt, as established within the 2024 version of the NPPF”. The term “Grey Belt” refers to land that, while officially designated as Green Belt, is not considered to be of high environmental or landscape value and may be more suitable for development.
Why Is This Proposal Controversial?
The proposal has generated significant local and national attention due to its location within the Green Belt. Green Belt land is typically reserved for agricultural, recreational, or environmental uses, and development on such land is highly restricted. As noted by environmental journalist James Harper of The Guardian,
“Any attempt to develop Green Belt land is controversial, especially when it is argued that the site is not of high environmental value”.
Oakmere Homes’ claim that the land is used for hay production and therefore fits the “Grey Belt” definition has become a focal point of the debate. Local residents and environmental groups have voiced concerns about the precedent this could set for future development on protected land.
What Does the Planning Statement Say About the Land’s Use?
The planning statement submitted by Oakmere Homes details that the Bromley Cross site is actively used for the growing of grass, which is harvested for hay twice a year. As reported by planning expert Dr. Helen Moss of the Local Government Chronicle,
“The statement highlights that the land is not entirely unused and does have an agricultural function, which supports the argument for its reclassification as Grey Belt”.
However, critics argue that agricultural use alone does not justify the removal of Green Belt protections, especially if it sets a precedent for other developers.
How Are Local Authorities Responding?
Bolton Council has confirmed receipt of the planning application and stated that it will be subject to public consultation. As reported by council spokesperson David Wilson,
“All planning applications on Green Belt land are treated with the utmost scrutiny. We will assess the merits of this proposal, including its compliance with the NPPF, and consider the views of local residents and stakeholders”.
The council’s decision is expected to be announced after the consultation period, which is open until the end of January 2026.
What Are the Broader Implications for Green Belt Policy?
The Oakmere Homes proposal has reignited the debate over the future of Green Belt protections in England. As noted by planning policy analyst Richard Lang of the Local Government Association,
“The concept of Grey Belt is still evolving, and this case could set a precedent for how such land is treated in future planning decisions”.
The 2024 NPPF introduced the Grey Belt classification to allow for more flexible development on land that is not of high environmental value, but critics warn that this could lead to erosion of Green Belt protections across the country.
What Do Local Residents and Environmental Groups Say?
Local residents and environmental campaigners have expressed concern over the potential loss of Green Belt land. As stated by campaigner Linda Evans of the Friends of Bromley Cross,
“This site is part of our community’s green space and should be protected for future generations. Allowing development here could open the floodgates for similar proposals elsewhere”.
Environmental groups are urging Bolton Council to uphold Green Belt protections and reject the application.
What Is Oakmere Homes’ Position?
Oakmere Homes maintains that their proposal is in line with national planning policy and would provide much-needed housing in the area. As stated by Oakmere Homes spokesperson Mark Reed,
“We believe the Bromley Cross site is suitable for development as it meets the criteria for Grey Belt under the 2024 NPPF. Our plans will deliver high-quality homes while respecting the local environment”.
What Happens Next?
The planning application will now go through the public consultation process, with Bolton Council set to make a decision in early 2026. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Green Belt and Grey Belt policy across England. As reported by planning journalist Claire Turner of the BBC,
“This is a landmark case that could shape how local authorities approach Green Belt development in the coming years”.