DEVELOPMENT giant Peel Holdings wants to quarry for sand and gravel on Astley Moss then restore the mossland for nature and agriculture.
Peel has submitted applications to local authority planners for a 60 acre site off Nook Lane.
Major landowner Peel's proposals include continued peat cutting and milling alongside sand and gravel extraction from below the peat layer.
The planned nature conservation area would include a lake, peat bog and heathland also created during the on-going process which is expected to take 18 years. The area involved is next to the proposed Salford Forest Park and Manchester racecourse.
Peel's development manager, Richard Brewster said: "We held meetings with the local residents group and they didn't seem overly concerned about our proposals. The development will benefit the local economy by offering long-term employment opportunities.
"Discussions took place regarding the end product of the land, but the council decided they wanted a nature reserve rather than any further leisure developments. So, as soon as we are given the all clear, restorations will begin on the conservation area."
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