Fears that parking charges could be introduced at one of the region's most popular beauty spots have resurfaced, despite previous plans being withdrawn.
United Utilities is continuing to review its plans for Rivington, which attracts around 1.5 million visits a year, amid an ongoing row over the prospect of motorists being charged to park.
It was reported in August that controversial plans to introduce charges at car parks on United Utilities land in Rivington had been dropped - for now.
United Utilities said it is still reviewing proposals for the popular beauty spot and is continuing discussions with residents, community groups and elected representatives following widespread opposition earlier this year.
A spokesperson said: "Our proposals for Rivington have always had a single aim: to improve the environment, visitor experience and facilities across the estate.
"We are listening carefully to the feedback from local residents, visitors, community representatives and elected members, and we remain committed to working closely with stakeholders as we review and shape our plans.
"Rivington welcomes around 1.5 million visits a year and faces increasing pressures including congestion, inconsiderate parking, anti-social behaviour and the ongoing maintenance of estate infrastructure.
"Our future proposals will include a range of measures that will focus on addressing these challenges while protecting Rivington's long-term future and ensuring it remains a place everyone can enjoy."
The utility firm also argued that much of the repair work is required because of poor driver behaviour and said it is unfair for water customers to bear the costs.
Bolton West MP Phil Brickell, who has met United Utilities to discuss the plans, said it was vital that Lord Leverhulme's vision of the estate being available for the "free and uninterrupted enjoyment of the public" was respected.
Cllr David Grant, who also met with United Utilities to discuss residents' concerns about the possible introduction of parking charges, accused United Utilities of attempting to transfer estate maintenance costs onto motorists.
Cllr Grant said the company's explanation failed to address public concerns about the principle of introducing parking charges.
He said: "The issue is not UU's communication, it is their strategy."
Cllr Grant argued that parking charges would not tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour, speeding or inconsiderate parking and instead risk pushing vehicles onto nearby residential streets and rural roads.
"In fact, pay-and-display schemes will exacerbate them by displacing hundreds of cars off estate land and pouring them directly into narrow rural lanes and the residential streets of Horwich, Blackrod, Adlington, and Rivington."
He added: "Lever Park belongs to the people.
"United Utilities must fund its upkeep from its own profits, not on the backs of local drivers."
United Utilities has withdrawn its previous planning applications but says it remains committed to developing long-term proposals for the estate, with further engagement expected before any revised plans come forward.
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