Plans have been submitted to repurpose a disused all-weather sports pitch in Heaton Moor into a turfed public open space. 

Proposals would see the existing astroturf pitch removed and replaced with 300mm of grass-seeded soil, bringing a community green space to an otherwise disused area of land.

Peel Moat open space - the land in question - is situated near St Thomas' Primary School. The pitch on the site fell into disuse in 2012, after the nearby Peel Moat Recreation Centre closed. 

A group formed in April 2023 under the name Friends of Peel Moat Open Space (FoPMOS), with the aim of "working alongside Stockport Council to develop [the] derelict site into a community open space for the benefit of local schools and organisations". 

As it stands, Sport England has objected to the proposals on the grounds that it would "lead to the loss of a playing field in an area where there is a deficiency in the provision of playing fields".

Stockport Council has since responded to Sport England's objection, arguing that since the field is 'lapsed' - meaning it has not been used for over five years - it does not constitute a playing field, and that therefore the consultation response from Sport England is a non-statutory consultation. This in effect means the council can proceed with the planning application, with a decision date set for 28 July. 

FoPMOS runs a litter pick to tidy up the disused area, which is beginning to be reclaimed by nature (Image - Friends of Peel Moat Open Space)

Sport England's concerns have nonetheless been addressed by Stockport Council, which "acknowledged the current and potential future shortfall with regards to sports provision", and promised to remain 'committed' to addressing the deficiencies. 

Should proposals go ahead, FoPMOS has expressed ambitions beyond capping the ground with soil and developing a surrounding ditch to deal with water runoff.

FoPMOS spokesperson Peter Appleby has explained hopes for rewilding, trees, raised beds, and an outdoor area in conjunction with local St Thomas' primary school. 

He also describes the positive impact green spaces can have. "I just want the space to be nicer than it is now", he explains. 

"If you look at the example of West Gorton Community Park, that is absolutely brilliant. It's transformed the local community's attitude almost to itself. If there's any graffiti or rubbish, it's immediately dealt with.

"And it's not just for the people who live here; there's also a National Trust initiative about creating green highways through cities. You link up all the green spaces - both in terms of pedestrian and cycle access, but also foot access, so you get this series of highways."

FoPMOS has started a petition in support of redeveloping the site; those who wish to sign it can do so HERE.

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