Creating Sustainable Spaces & Collaborative Development in Springhead
CUSTOM BUILD HOMES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE
Public Engagement - 29.05.25 [17:00-19:00]
at Lees Village Library
Building specialist custom houses for local people with your chance to be a part of it and build your home for life with the support you need to do it.
What's it all about...
Overall Scheme
This is a unique chance for local people to take control of development in Springhead. The landowners have worked on the principle of self build development at this site for the past 2 years. They wish to see local people move into properties and increase the calibre of development in the area, setting a standard for development in Saddleworth for the future.
The development has significantly decreased from 158 homes to just 18 - an 88% decrease in density. The Stonebreaks Group have incorporated a detailed Design Code which includes Plot Passports to prevent sprawl of development, encourage considerate characterful design that reflects the area. This is why each design code is different.
The development will be centrally managed and aims to set a standard for self build / custom developments schemes for the future.
As the development has significantly decreased, approximately 11 acres of land remains which we would like to have local input and suggestions for on what it can be used for to achieve positive improvements of the land for all of the community. It is vital a management plan and community care is established for this land to ensure its protection for the future and this is a rare opportunity for the community to be a part of the proposals - hands on.
So far we are looking into ideas of:
Tree planting grants to increase quality planting - applied for and successfully aqcuired 270 trees - we're now working on a planting plan with out landscape architects and need to set up a community led planting programme for November 2025.
Areas of parking for existing residents
Dedicating areas of land for ecological enhancements through specialist allocations with GMEU
Community Allotments
Community Play Areas
Each scheme introduces a number of other benefits in particular through the creation of new bridleways and pathways. A complete new Bridleway at Stonebreaks Rd - Currently no public rights of way. A new footpath through the development at Dellhide Close to give public access to the main vantage point of the site and link to the ridgeline PROW.
Stonebreaks Rd Scheme
Summary of the design
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Self build plots accessed off Radcliffe Street via a connected road that features an enhanced green corridor with a wide bridle path and single aspect road. The road will be designed to restrict access for motorcross users which have caused issues previously through the use of Stonebreaks Road.
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9 large self build plots
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New footpath links to the main PROW of the site which separates the self build home sites of Radcliffe Street & Dellhide Close
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5 Acres of open space surrounding the self build development sites, with plans to make this a community asset. Building on the ecology and character of the land to create a beautifully landscaped managed space for all.
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Three new link footpaths from Stonebreaks Rd to 'The Ridge' PROW to increase connectivity and use of the site.
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Plots are in line with the existing residential boundary of The Meadows to ensure adequate building line is retained to the Green belt land beyond the site, whilst providing key routes and connections to explore Wood Brook and its surrounding beauty.
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Plots are placed within strategic areas to allow minimum effect upon ecology. Providing a ecological haven for the area.
Dellhide Close Scheme
Summary of the design
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Self build plots accessed off Dellhide Close via a connected road that features an enhanced PROW from Cooper Street to the Cricket Club
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9 large self build plots
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8 Acres of open space surrounding the self build development sites, with plans to make this a community asset. Building on the ecology and character of the land to create a beautifully landscaped managed space for all.
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The plots are strategically positioned to minimize their impact on the surrounding ecology, creating an ecological haven within the area. The ecological quality of the area will enhance the experience of walking through green corridors, providing a sustainable and harmonious environment that promotes both biodiversity and well-being.
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Key public right of way and increased footpaths throughout the wider development improving sustainability and connectivity for new and existing residents of Springhead,