Campaigners say plans to build a school on Captain Clough playing fields have been thrown out

Campaigners believe they have won the fight to stop a school being built on Captain's Clough playing fields.

Sorie Sesay, a member of Smithills Labour Party, who has been campaigning against the plans, told The Bolton News today: "This is fantastic news. I’m absolutely delighted that the Council’s plans for the Captains Clough school development have been dropped.

"It’s vital our playing fields and other green spaces are protected for future generations. A school on this site would have been disastrous for the environment and created enormous traffic problems locally.

"This is a fantastic victory for Smithills residents. It just shows what can be achieved when people work together.

Roger Hayes, ward councillor for Smithills, said: "As far as I know that's the case. Two council leaders told me this week.

"I think it was down to two things. One, the live birth figures weren't high enough in the area and two the council recognises the opposition.

"Opposers made it very difficult to put it through."

Plans for the multi-million primary school were first proposed last September, with education bosses saying the school would benefit both children and the wider community ­— especially the local sports club.

However, the plans sparked an array of concerns from residents in the area.

One local resident, Kath Tomlins, contacted The Bolton News back in September to express her anger that the playing fields were being considered for the scheme.

She said: “I’m writing to vent my absolute disgust and utter disbelief about the proposed school being built on Captain's Clough Road playing fields.

PLAYING FIELDS: This was the proposed place for the new school

"Whoever thought this could be a good idea is obviously living on another planet. This field has been part of the local community for years and is used by so many people, including the local football team.

"The traffic is already horrendous as Church Road school is close, as well as traffic going to other schools nearby. In all honesty where is the increase in traffic going to go, the roads close by can’t cope."

The Bolton News is still seeking official confirmation the proposals have been thrown out Bolton Council say that they will issue a statement on Monday.

More to follow.