The above was discussed at a recent meeting of the Shaw and Crompton District Executive held on the 8 Oct 13.

Consideration was given to a report of the Executive Director, Commercial Services, which sought delegated authority to advertise an intention to dispose of land comprising the site of the former Matthias Pilling House and adjoining land at Milnrow Road/Siddall Street, Shaw which had been identified as Public Open Space.

This report had been presented to the District Executive for consultation purposes following a request by councillor Howard Sykes.

Members discussed the impact that the disposal of the site on the area. Planning applications to develop the public open space on the site had previously been refused and this was a key plot on a major route through the area.

Elected Members confirmed that previous administrations had given verbal assurances that the site of Matthias Pilling House would be redeveloped for social housing for the elderly (i.e. its previous use).

Concerns were also raised regarding the reduction of Public Open Space in the area if the disposal continued as detailed in the report as there was a severe lack of open public space in Shaw.

The Meeting resolved that::

1. The District Executive opposed the sale of the land on the site of the former Matthias Pilling House on the open market;

2. Should the decision be made to sell the land, the District Executive recommended that the site of the former Matthias Pilling House be sold in order to provide social housing for older members of the community;

3. The District Executive recommended that the area of Public Open Space adjoining the site of the former Matthias Pilling House not be included in any disposal.