THE BATTLE to save a picturesque Harwood farm from being turned into a golf course is set to continue. Earlier this year Bolton councillors refused planning permission to extend Breightmet Golf Club onto agricultural land at Nab Gate Farm. The farm, which has been likened in appearance to a Constable painting, has been worked by tenant farmer Arnold Davenport for more than 40 years.

But farm owner Chris Holt was seeking permission to use nearly 20 acres of the land to increase the size of the adjoining golf course to 16 holes.

The move would have meant an end to Mr Davenport's livelihood farming beef and dairy cattle, sheep and hens on one of the last working farms in Breightmet and Harwood.

Traffic

Councillors were also concerned about the potential impact of extra traffic in the area which would result and refused planning permission, going against the advice of planning officers. But Mr Holt has now appealed to the Secretary of State for the Environment against the decision and planning inspectors are due to review the matter later this month.

Letters of objection or support made at the original planning stage will be looked at by the inspectors and anyone living near the proposed golf course site who wants to make their views know has until November 13 to send their letters in.

Two copies should be sent to the Planning Inspectorate, Room 12/22, Tollgate House, Houlton Street, Bristol BS2 9DJ.

Quote reference number APP/N4205/A/98/1011522.

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