Controversial plans for green belt development withdrawn by Gary Neville

Campaigners 'walk for Turn Moss'

Former Manchester United star turned businessman Gary Neville has withdrawn plans to develop green belt land at Turn Moss fields in Stretford.

On his first day in office, head of Trafford Labour group and new leader of Trafford Council, Andrew Western, announced via Twitter that the planning application had been formally withdrawn.

The former footballer turned TV pundit wanted to develop some of the land for Salford City FC and the planned University (UA) 92 to use.

The planning application for the site in Stretford also included a new café, playground, changing rooms, exercise trail and 4G pitch.

Mr Neville’s plans would have allowed a new football training complex to be built on the protected land.

Council leader Mr Western said: “A community-led consultation is key to deciding how Turn Moss can be improved.

“We will work with the community to improve Turn Moss for future generations,” he added.

Chair of campaign-group Friends of Turn Moss, Simon Howarth, said: “We are over the moon and look forward to a bright future for Turn Moss.

“We are happy to help improve the fields for all users, we need a proper, open discussion to find out what people’s priorities are, things that will be of real benefit to all.

“Thank you to everyone who helped make our campaign a success.

“So many objections and votes – it shows that if a community unites, you can make a difference.”

Friends of Turn Moss committee member, Nixon Tod, added: “We are absolutely delighted to hear Councillor Western’s statement.

“We believe it’s the correct decision to withdraw the plans.

“The drainage strategy would have been a disaster for the grassroots teams, it’s a real victory for local people.

“There is funding out there to improve Turn Moss for everyone, better facilities for the footballers is a priority, it needs to stay green belt and free for all to use.”

TheBusinessDesk.com contacted Trafford Council for a comment, but they declined.

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