The Council has now published the response it received in August from the inspector, Kevin Ward, on its proposed "Core Strategy" document. The latter includes plans for significant new housing and employment premises on the eastern side of Wigan Rd between (and including the sites of) Landgate Farm and Bryn Rec.

The full response can be viewed here. Briefly, the inspector considers the Landgate development plans to be justified and in line with Government policy but says they presently "lack sufficient clarity, realism and flexibility" (paragraphs 84-95). He has categorically ruled out other proposals for development around M6 Jct 25, stating that the encroachment on Green Belt land, interference with public rights of way and loss of visual amenity for residents could not be justified by the anticipated economic benefits (paragraphs 65-83).

Evidently the ball is now back in the Council's court. I see its timetable for finalising the Strategy has slipped somewhat in that it now anticipates completion in "late 2013".

Town: Ashton