OWNERS of land designated to build industrial units in Radcliffe have assured worried residents of the benefits that the project will bring.

Permission was granted for 18 units, called Eton Phase 2, to be built on land north of Eton Hill Business Park, in Eton Hill Road, by planning officers last week.

Objectors to the project have stated that the negative environmental effects such as increased traffic and noise pollution would outweigh any the benefits.

The planned units vary between 850 to 1,000 square feet in size, with work due to start imminently and taking a year to complete.

A spokesman for Hamilton Heath Estates, the owners of the land, said: “We understand that the local residents may have some concerns and we wish to allay any fears they have.

“We have planned the build of the new units meticulously with a focus on an environmentally friendly design and with a firm timeline in place, to minimise any disruptions in the area.

“Our property team will be on site supervising the build and we have the concerns of the residents at the forefront of our minds.”

They added that they are confident that the new development will be a significant asset for Radcliffe’s continued regeneration.

“Eton Phase 2 is aimed at providing exciting opportunities to small business’ in the area by creating a clean and modern working space and we look forward to our new clients providing more employment in the Bury and Radcliffe area.”

One vocal objector, Lynn Hill, who lives in Bury Road, said: “I think this proposal will cause increased heavy goods vehicles and other vehicles using Bury Road to get access to the business park, car parking and service yard.

“It is already a very busy road and I have witnessed road traffic accidents in this area outside the entrance to Tottington Car Sales on this retail park.

“There will also be increased engine noise and pollution in what is a residential area.

“I think there is enough business in this area already, and I’m concerned about what could be stored in these units close by to residents’ homes.

“I’m sure the land would be better used for much needed housing, rather than industrial units,” she added.

A report by council planning officers said the objections had been understood when making the decision but that the plans put it place would minimalise the impact on the surrounding area.

They added that there will be a minimum of 20 metres between the existing and proposed industrial units, which would be acceptable and comply with policy.

“The proposed development would not have an adverse impact upon the amenity of the neighbouring properties,” said the report.

Paul Clark, of CJ Partnership, the architects overseeing the project said that the land will be used for

“It is a brownfield site and has been designated for use so I can see why the plans were accepted,” he said.

“Small business is booming in the area and that will continue here so the units will benefit the local economy.”

He added that resident’s fears of negative environmental effects were off the mark.

“The way that it has been planned out is good because the layout means that the units cannot be seen by residents so I don’t see people say it will be an eye sore.

“There is good access through the roads and the area will be remediated so I don’t see how the units can be classed as an eye sore.”

It has not been confirmed yet exactly what each unit will become, just that they are designated for small size business.