No Sewage, No Homes: Historic Village Residents Protest New Development

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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No Sewage, No Homes: Historic Village Residents Protest Controversial New Development

A picturesque historic village is facing a furious backlash from residents who claim a proposed new housing development will overwhelm the existing sewage system, leaving them without essential services. The protest, which has seen residents blockading construction sites and staging demonstrations, highlights a growing conflict between preserving the character of historic communities and the pressures of modern development.

The village of Ashton-under-Lyne, known for its charming cobbled streets and preserved 18th-century architecture, is at the heart of the controversy. Plans for a 200-home development on the outskirts of the village have been met with fierce opposition, primarily due to concerns about the inadequacy of the existing sewage infrastructure. Residents fear that the influx of new residents will completely overwhelm the system, leading to raw sewage overflows and a serious public health crisis.

Sewage System at Breaking Point?

Ashton-under-Lyne's sewage system, a relic of a bygone era, is already struggling to cope with the current population. Regular blockages and overflows are reported, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Local council documents, obtained by our reporters, reveal that the system has been flagged as needing significant upgrades for several years, but funding has been repeatedly delayed. The proposed development, however, would drastically increase the strain, potentially pushing the system beyond its breaking point.

"This isn't about NIMBYism," explains Margaret Davies, a lifelong resident and spokesperson for the protest group, "Ashton-under-Lyne Residents Against Unsustainable Development" (AURAD). "It's about basic public health and the preservation of our community. The council is prioritizing profit over the well-being of its residents. We won't stand for it."

Key Concerns Raised by AURAD:

• Overwhelmed Sewage System: The existing infrastructure is insufficient for the proposed increase in population.
• Public Health Risks: Raw sewage overflows pose a significant threat to public health.
• Lack of Transparency: Residents claim the council has not been transparent about the sewage system's limitations.
• Environmental Damage: Potential pollution of local waterways due to sewage overflows.
• Impact on Historic Character: Concerns that the new development will negatively impact the village's unique character.

The Council's Response

The local council has defended the development plans, arguing that an upgrade to the sewage system is included in the project's budget. However, AURAD disputes this, citing a lack of concrete evidence and accusing the council of using vague assurances to appease residents. The council has also emphasized the need for new housing in the area to address the growing housing shortage.

This debate underscores a wider issue facing many historic communities across the country: balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of existing infrastructure and the unique character of these areas. The Ashton-under-Lyne situation serves as a stark warning to other towns and villages facing similar development pressures. Failing to adequately assess the capacity of existing infrastructure before approving new developments can have severe consequences.

What Happens Next?

The protest continues, with AURAD planning further demonstrations and legal action if necessary. The situation remains tense, highlighting the critical need for open dialogue between developers, local councils, and residents to ensure sustainable and responsible development that prioritizes the well-being of communities. The outcome of this dispute will undoubtedly have significant implications for similar development projects across the UK. We will continue to update you on this developing story. Stay tuned for further updates.