Residents in Blackrod, Greater Manchester, have expressed strong opposition to a large house currently being constructed that they say will destroy their cherished views of the nearby moorland beauty spot, Rivington Pike. Despite significant local resistance and objections from Blackrod Town Council, Bolton Council approved the development, which has sparked considerable controversy in the community.

The new property, described by many locals as a “monstrosity,” is being built on two previously separate plots that were purchased by a developer named Barry Jackson, who has declined to comment on the backlash. Neighbours report that the building is now rising close to their fences and casting shadows into gardens that were previously sunlit, impacting not only the visual aesthetics but also the living environment of those nearby.

Vincent Walden, 88, a retired security guard who has lived in the area with his wife Gladys for 65 years, said of the project: “It’s crackers. We love the view over to Rivington Pike from our garden but this will destroy it. The decision by the council to build is madness. It’s very upsetting. It will be horrendous when it’s built.”

The development is seen as particularly harmful because it obstructs views towards Rivington Pike, a scenic hilltop that has been a long-standing attraction for walkers and nature enthusiasts. From the summit of the Pike, one can see landmarks such as Blackpool Tower, the Lake District’s Cumbrian Fells, and even the Isle of Man on clear days. The hill is also notable for its historic Grade II-listed tower, originally constructed in 1733 as a hunting lodge.

Other residents echoed Mr Walden’s concerns. Lisa Eatock, 52, described the approval as a “crazy decision,” adding, “It will ruin our beautiful view and is so out of keeping with the place.” Similarly, David Anderton, 75, called the house a “monstrosity” and criticised the decision to grant planning permission, saying, “We are all angry about it as it will destroy our view. It should never have been allowed.”

Local objections also focused on the size and scale of the construction. Christine Dixon, a 57-year-old IT worker, remarked, “Most people have objected to it. It is just too large and out of keeping with the area. It will totally ruin the views over to the moors for a lot of people and there will be traffic and access problems.” Joan Calderbank, 77, described the council’s decision as “mad” and spoke about the impact on the community’s outlook: “It’s a pretty depressing thing to have happened.”

Younger residents have voiced concern over the increased noise and parking difficulties the new building might bring. Student Jess Dobson, 28, said: “I’m shocked by the scale of it. It’s like another huge house. I thought it was just going to be an extension. The parking round here [is already bad] and the noise is only going to get worse.”

The controversy also extends to privacy issues for some residents. One mother of two young children said, “It’s outrageous. We’ll have to keep our daughters’ bedroom curtains closed. People are very unhappy with the decision.” Independent Blackrod Town councillor John Price described the approval as “a scandalous decision” and expressed sympathy for affected residents, stating, “I feel sorry for the residents. They are lovely people but they feel their views have just been ignored.” He added that it was unlikely Bolton Council would reverse the decision.

Bolton Council’s planning officer responsible for the approval noted in their report that the development complies with regulations regarding building height and proximity to neighbouring properties, although this has not assuaged local discontent.

At present, construction is ongoing, and the debate over the impact of this new house remains a divisive issue within Blackrod. Bolton Council has been approached for comment but has yet to provide a public response.

Source: Noah Wire Services