ACCESS is a key element in plans to build on Tyldesley Rugby ground.

Peel Investments (North) Ltd want to develop a 9 acre site at the bottom of Well Street for housing.

The land includes the whole of the rugby ground and part of land owned by Tyldesley Subscription Bowling Club.

And the project would enable the Tyldesley RUFC to move to a new ground off Astley Street and, hopefully, secure the club's future.

But the Well Street housing plan has provoked a residents' petition from people who fear traffic problems.

The biggest outcry has come because Peel want to demolish 22 Hollins Close to make way for an emergency access route to the ground which is serviced only by Well Street.

Locals believe this would create potential road dangers, but planners say the Hollins Close access would be via a locked gate accessible only by emergency services.

And objectors say Well Street is unsuitable for increased traffic but suggest an alternative route using Maesbrook Close and Westerdale Close.

There are no objections on Well Street access from the Borough Engineer, subject to alterations at its junction with Tyldesley's main street.

And Sport England don't object to the loss of the old ground as long as the new one is available before existing pitches are lost.

Planning committee members voted for a site visit before making a decision.

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