A petition has been started with the aim of designating Peel Moat Open Space in Heaton Moor / Heaton Chapel as a 'local green space'. 

A local green space designation is similar in status to green belt, and would provide increased protection for the land against development. 

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". 

It is this community group which has submitted the petition. 

As it stands, the land is currently used as a playground and trim trail, but could be developed in future. 

The petition runs until 1 August. It argues: "If designated as a local green space, [the site] would be preserved for the local community and more likely to attract donor support to further develop the site with the support of the FoPMOS."

FoPMOS spokesperson Peter Appleby also argued that the site meets the criteria for a local green space designation. 

"We are asking the council to remove the current developable designation and replace it with local green space status", he said. "This very popular and easily accessible playground [...] is clearly better suited to its current use as an open space. 

"If the residents agree, they have an opportunity during the upcoming planning review and consultation to be heard; they can also sign our petition on the council website."

That is to say that local green space designations can only occur during a review to the council's local plan / neighbourhood plan. 

Find the petition and more information HERE.

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