Teen campaigners celebrate successful fight against Holmes Chapel development

The Save Saltersford Corner campaign, led by young residents aged 14-18, was set up in opposition to Russell Homes’ proposal to build 100 properties on Saltersford Corner, Holmes Chapel.

After months of relentless campaigning, the group’s efforts were vindicated when the application was unanimously rejected by members of Strategic Planning Board on May 28.

Bill Armstrong, 17, spearheaded the campaign and spoke to the Guardian after the board’s decision.

He added: “All of our hard work has paid off and we are now able to reap the rewards, not just for ourselves but also for the wider community.

“As chairman of the campaign, I would like to thank every single person who has supported the campaign throughout the process – all of the support has been greatly appreciated.”

Bill was joined in his campaign by Abbie Little, 16, Ellie Little, 14, Daniella Russo, 18, Sam Bennett, 15, and Lizzie Broxton, 15, all of whom attend Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School.

The young campaigners listened as Bill, along with ward councillors Les Gilbert and Andrew Kolker and Clr Huw Thomas from Twemlow Parish Council, spoke out in opposition to the application at last Wednesday’s meeting.

Clr Gilbert described the development as ‘unplanned, unwanted, and unsustainable’ and Clr Kolker said Holmes Chapel was already pushed to capacity in respect to the health centre and schools.

Other concerns raised in relation to the development include loss of Greenfield site, loss of agricultural land and strain on road infrastructure.

Numerous board members congratulated Bill after his address, stating he ‘spoke very well’, and after a short debate, a vote was moved to refuse planning permission.

Campaigner Daniella said: “I hope we have proved anyone who doubted us wrong with our victory, which I believe is even more impressive considering our age, and inspired more young people to get involved with the community.”