Calls for former bowling green in Ramsbottom to be renovated after controversial planning application thrown out

Plans tabled by Astim Ltd to build 24 flats for retired people behind Ramsbottom Civic Hall were rejected by Bury Council's planning committee, and now councillors and activists want to see the land renovated.

The green, which is in the Ramsbottom Conservation Area, has not been used since March 2011, and has become overgrown.

It was the former home of the Grant Arms Bowling Club, which said it had been forced out of its home because of an increase in rent, and is now based at the Rose and Crown in Carr Street.

A meeting has now been called, to be held at the Nuttall Park base next Wednesday (February 4), for anyone who wants to support the campaign.

Cllr Luise Fitzwalter said: "This was home to a flourishing bowling club until the present owner increased the rents dramatically year on year so it became unsustainable.

"What we need to do now is to get the bowling green back and enable the very popular bowling club to function again.

"It was a focal point in the heart of Ramsbottom where crown green bowls had been played for about 160 years.

"The club was one of the best in the North West with teams playing in three different leagues.

"We are holding a meeting and we would like anyone who wants to support us to come along. We are especially hoping to contact former members of the club."

Cllr Fitzwalter said the meeting will be used to discuss possible options to renovate the land, including the possibility of raising funds to buy the site.

Astim Ltd, who are the owners of the land, have the right to appeal the decision, which was originally recommended to be approved by planning officers.

The rejection by the planning committee came after 52 people formally opposed the plans during a consultation, as well as Ramsbottom Heritage Society, the Friends of Ramsbottom Civic Hall and the the town's three councillors all speaking out in opposition at the meeting.