Oldham Council has de-designated Royton Moss as a site of biological importance which is the only reason it was protected from the Greater Manchester spatial framework development plan which stated “Any development would also be required to protect and enhance existing biodiversity where appropriate, including the Site of Biological Importance (SBI) at Royton Moss”. Given Labour Oldham’s recent record for allowing housing schemes on green land and sports pitches the decision to officially remove protective status from Royton Moss does not bode well the area.
