Plans to build 30 new affordable homes on a much-loved field in the heart of an estate are dividing a community. The proposals would see rental housing ‘for local people’ built off Borrowdale Road, in Langley, Middleton. The land is known locally as ‘The Ponderosa’ - also an old colloquial name for Langley itself.
The project is being driven by Big Help Langley Developments - a community interest company formed by Langley Community Benefits Society and charity The Big Help. West Middleton councillor Sue Smith - a founder member of the benefits society - has been instrumental in bringing the partnership together, and says the area is crying out for social housing.
But some locals insist The Ponderosa - used for community events and popular with dog walkers and children - is not the place for them. Objectors have formed The Ponderosa Committee to push back against the plans while Facebook group ‘Commoners Save the Ponderosa, Langley’ has just shy of 1,000 members.
READ MORE: Greens back former Labour councillor’s bid to become MP at next general election
