CAMPAIGNERS, supported by Tory MP Stephen Mosley, have tied a giant green ribbon around Oakwood Farm to symbolise the loss of Green Belt land if the site is developed and how CWaC are ‘giving it away as a gift’.

Mr Mosley said: “In the twenty minutes I was there dozens of motorists tooted their horns in support for the campaign. The residents have right on their side and I hope common sense will prevail and the council drops this unwanted and unnecessary project.”

And campaigners have already collected 3,000 names for a petition opposing the transit site which will be handed into the council’s HQ building this Friday, triggering a debate at full council.

Campaigner Michael Cowle, from Saughall, said: “We have had signatures from all over Saughall, Mollington, Puddington, Ledsham, Capenhurst, Blacon and far afield. The support for us to save our Green Belt on Oakwood farm has been enormous!”

Residents are willing to seek a judicial review against the council arguing its procedures are flawed because there was no consultation and the site is Green Belt land which is why it was not included on a list recommended by the council’s own consultants.

The council says issues raised by residents will be addressed during the public consultation which will take place when a planning application for the development is lodged.