PLANS to build 830 homes are set to be discussed next month with concerns growing about the location of a proposed new link road.

An application to build houses to the west of Leigh Road and Bee Fold Lane and the east of Millers Lane will be debated by Wigan Council's planning committee on July 17.

Conservation group ASPECT (Atherton South Preservation Ecology Community Team) are worried about the safety of building a link road above a National Grid high pressure pipeline

Chair of ASPECT Barbara Constantine said: "We are very concerned as the road is within the easement of the gas pipeline

"It makes a mockery of the easement zone.

"It is OK to say that there has never been an accident there before but people raised concerns about Grenfell Tower and they are now asking why they didn't listen to them. 

"It seems poignant that the plans will be discussed at a time when the findings of that tragedy last year are being heard.

"We know that to build new houses the infrastructure is needed but we are asking the road to be built 50 yards further away.

"We have offered an alternative which we know is feasible, safer and more cost-effective.

"We do know the development is going to happen but safety is our priority.

"I do not want Atherton to go up in a blue light."

An outline planning application was submitted to the council by Tarleton Estates Ltd in September.

Marie Bintley, assistant director for growth and regeneration at the council, said: “We have consulted the pipeline operator who raise no objections to the proposal.

"The application is being assessed and all representations received will be taken into consideration.

“The application will be considered by the planning committee.

"We are satisfied, that should members approve the application when it is reported to the planning committee, then the development will be carried out in a safe manner without causing a detrimental impact on the pipeline.”