A DECISION on whether a new campsite, labelled a "party venue" by concerned residents, can open in Shuttleworth is likely to be made next month.

At last week's meeting of Bury Council's planning committee, councillors agreed to visit the site at Sheep Hey Farm, in Leaches Road, before voting on whether the plans will go ahead.

The area was used as a temporary campsite during last year's Ramsbottom Festival, but nearby neighbours have complained that the noise levels from the field have made it impossible to sleep.

Speaking against the plans at the meeting, Cllr Ian Bevan said: "I live a few hundred yards away and know the area well. This location is not suited to a wedding or events venue.

"On one occasion when the site was being used, I'm told there was noise at the site until 5am. Toilets and showers have been left there for up to four months — these are not the actions of a responsible owner.

"This is not a campsite, it will be an events venue."

Other complainants have said that access to the area is "difficult and dangerous" when the volume of traffic increases and that the site would result in a lack of privacy and a reduction in property values for residents.

John Hodkinson, the agent speaking in favour of the application, said: "The applicants, Mr and Mrs Rothwell, are reasonable people and don't wish to fall out with the neighbours. I'm not convinced that the objections are wholly in accordance with the facts.

"The events are one-offs and the campsite will be an asset to the area that helps attract more visitors."

Local resident Ewen Gardiner added that noise from events in the area is "already damaging residential amenity" and that the site has been marketed for events involving young people, alcohol, and loud music.

Planning committee members are expected to visit the area in the next month, before making a decision at their next meeting on May 24.

Cllr Sharon Briggs said: "It's difficult to envisage the site and we need to see the distance from the site to residents in order to decide what the impact is."