Kids have played here ‘for generations’

It might not look like much, but for neighbours here it means everything. A patch of tarmac next to Grafton Street in Heaton Norris has been the centre of the community “for generations”, according to residents.

It is the place where kids learn to ride their bikes and built their first snowman. But soon this small play space surrounded by terraced houses could be gone forever.

On December 19, Stockport council gave Stockport Homes planning permission to build six bungalows on the 0.2 hectares of land. These much-needed one-bedroom homes will be for social rent, with adaptations for disabled people.

Residents are upset about losing what they say is the only space for children in the area.

“After three years of campaigning, we’re disappointed with the outcome,” says Chris Yates, a Heaton Norris resident who has led a campaign against the plans.

Nearby Grafton Street Park, which has play equipment, is too small for the number of families in Heaton Norris, locals told the Manchester Evening News in November. Other neighbours said the land was used for annual events such as Remembrance Day, which brought people together.

The application was also met with opposition from Stockport Green Party, who raised concerns about the loss of a London Plane tree on the land if homes are built. But despite the fears, it was approved after a majority of councillors voted to give it the green light.

Coun Rachel Wise, deputy chair of Stockport’s planning committee, said the scheme is “very necessary” and will help disabled people live in modern and comfortable homes.

Stockport Homes said the plan for the land is part of creating more affordable and accessible housing in the borough.

A spokesperson added: “The Grafton Street development will introduce much needed new social rented wheelchair-accessible homes which will be life transforming for some of the many local people in housing need in the area, facilitate ageing well and support independent living.

“We have consulted with the local community and incorporated their feedback into our application.”