I AM writing following recent articles concerning Wigan's decisions to approve the industrial development at Stonecross Lane, Golborne.

Wigan's main argument in approving this development is that it will bring jobs to the area. No-one would disagree that this rea, like most of the North West, desperately needs more job opportunities. However, my argument and one of the main arguments put forward by residents opposing this development is, that green agricultural land should not be destroyed when there are other suitable alternative sites available.

There are acres of derelict and semi-derelict land throughout the borough which could be used for industrial development. There is also a substantial acreage of vacant land on existing industrial estates at Ashton, Haydock, Hope Carr and new provision at the old Parkside Colliery site.

Traffic congestion has already reached unacceptable levels on roads in and around the proposed development, particularly the East Lancs, Newton Road and the M6. This development will place a further burden on an already grossly overburdened road network.

I have no doubt that these points, and more, have already been well aired and more persuasively argued. However, once again the views of local residents have been over-ruled by Wigan. Perhaps that isn't a surprise given Wigan's long established track record in ignoring the views of people it purports to represent. The same is also very evident elsewhere in the borough.

I was born, and have lived in Leigh all my life. I am saddened by the way in which the town has been spoiled by a combination of inept planning decisions and excessive development. Despite the dwindling acreage of green fields and the consequent loss of amenity, unacceptable levels of congestion on roads in and out of the town, developments continue apparently unchecked.

Leigh and surrounding areas such as Astley, Lowton and Golborne will disappear in a totally congested suburban sprawl stretching from Manchester to Liverpool unless there is a fundamental change in Wigan's planning policy.

Successive development over the years have been approved by Wigan despite protests from residents. We have seen the sale and proposed sale of parkland and other green field sites, such as Brookfield and the Wesley Guild playing field. This in the face of substantial opposition from residents whose views are ignored. Wigan may have the legal right but they do not have the moral right to sell off and destroy our heritage.

(name and address supplied)

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