Dozens of residents gathered to discuss their objections against a housing development, which would see 26 homes being built.

Residents have been vocal about their concerns ever since plans were lodged - in December of last year - to build the homes to the south and east of Meadowcroft on Longsight Lane in Harwood.

Their main concerns are that species would be affected near Longsight Park, Harwood, including sites of biological interest (SBIs), including Harwood Vale, and Bradshaw Brook.

The applicant's Oaktree Developments have said that the proposals "will not have an unacceptable impact on existing trees, or the adjacent woodland site and ecological enhancements are proposed".

The Bolton News: Jane Wilcock and Janet TaylorJane Wilcock and Janet Taylor (Image: Newsquest)

At the latest meeting on Friday (June 30), organiser Jane Wilcock says that the report detailing the species observed was also discussed.

She added: “So far since January, until now, we have seen 178 different species, including mammals, insects, flowers and birds.

“The two areas of green land are very well used and contains all of the species we picked up.

“Many things have come out of hibernation, and you can’t just push things out.

“They don’t have a voice and we are trying to give them a voice.

“All you can do is present evidence and hope they can agree with us.”

Jane says that this has been reported to the Greater Manchester Ecology Unit, and she is yet to see whether this could have an impact on the development.

The group also highlighted a petition set up for an ancient hedge bank to see if it is of historical significance to the community.

Jane said: “We are hoping to try and get it listed as a local heritage value.

“We don’t know how old it is, but believe it could date back to the 1800’s.

“We are collecting a petition to share how people view it and whether they want it here for future generations.”

Jane has urged anyone living in the area who is especially keen to protect the ancient hedge bank, to get in touch by emailing her at friendsoflongsightpark@hotmail.co.uk.

The petition will then be sent to the planning department to see if this can help support resident’s objections.

Jane added: “We are hoping to be invited to speak about the passion and significance of the area at a later date.”

Jane also says that so far everything has been part of a big learning curve for her and those involved, and she has enrolled on a variety of courses, including one on spiders.

Read the full statement below for the applicant's Oaktree Developments Ltd:

"Oaktree Developments Ltd have submitted a full planning application for a high-quality energy efficient family home.

"The proposal seeks to provide much-needed housing to the local area as well as affordable housing provision.

"The site is adjacent to the settlement boundary and is in a sustainable location with good access to local transport.

"The existing rights of way within the site will be maintained as part of the development. "The proposal has been sympathetically designed to ensure that the new development will be in keeping with the character of the local area.

"A comprehensive landscape scheme has been prepared to ensure that the proposals will not have an unacceptable impact on existing trees, or the adjacent woodland site and ecological enhancements are proposed."

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.