An appeal has been launched against the decision by Bolton Council to reject plans for an eco-home in Stoneclough.

Gary Dent put forward a proposal for a site on land at Ringley Old Brow.

He wanted to create a four bedroom eco-home which he said would have a “wide range of environmental benefits.”

It would have included energy-efficient features such as a green roof.

A statement prepared at the time of the application highlighted why the developer believed it was an exceptional case which warranted being given permission on the green belt.

It said: “The planning case is based around the new home clearly representing limited infilling in the village between two existing properties and providing an innovative, exceptional home with associated planning benefits that represent very special circumstances in the green belt.

“We have already been very critical of the design to be in keeping within the local vernacular and been sensitive to the surroundings and neighbouring buildings.

"It is believed that the proposals demonstrate minimal impact on the green belt as well as enhancement to sites countryside views, biodiversity, and sustainability credentials.”

It added: “The dwelling is proposed to be constructed using insulated concrete formwork) providing a wide range of environmental benefits – not least Passivhaus levels of insulation and airtightness.”

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However the plans were rejected by Bolton Council in March this year.

A decision notice stated: “The proposed development represents inappropriate development in the green belt and the benefits/considerations put forward by the applicant in support of the proposal do not clearly outweigh the harm that would be caused to the green belt, and therefore do not amount to very special circumstances.”

However Mr Dent has now launched an appeal against this decision, which will be determined by the planning inspectorate.

He has opted for the proceeding to be determined by a hearing.