VIDEO: Campaigners hit out at plans for 3,000 homes on greenbelt site
Developer Orchard Brae Limited wants to create a major housing development, cinema, shopping centre and school on the land outside Airdrie
Campaigners are stepping up their fight against a developer's plans to build 3,000 homes on greenbelt land in North Lanarkshire.
Glasgow-based Orchard Brae Limited wants to develop the sprawling 3 mile square site close to the M8 at Eurocentral on the outskirts of Airdrie which is made up of two estates, Woodhall and Faskine.
The development called "Europark" would include a shopping centre, a cinema, a school and office space if given the go-ahead.
Campaigners say the controversial plans would wipe out resident wildlife like otters and badgers.
They also say its a haven for nature lovers and is popular with dog walkers, cyclists and people fishing.
A Facebook page, 'Stop The Europark Development' has gained 1,700 likes.
The company is defending the project saying it will preserve more than 40% of the green space and create 1,200 direct jobs.
Campaigners also argue its a site of signifcant historical interest as it boasts the Monklands Canal, remnants of the Woodhall Estate country house which is listed and one of Scotland's earliest railways.
Here's local historian Doctor Ann Glen:
North Lanarkshire Council says Orchard Brae has carried out a pre-planning consultation and their understanding is they wish to carry out a further consultation in advance of any planning application being submitted.
Campaigners argue there are other brownfield sites where the housing could be built.
That's the view of local Labour Councillor David Fagan who is backing the campaign:
A spokesperson from Orchard Brae says: “We continue to progress the EuroPark proposals and remain committed to providing an enhanced green space and improved canal network at the heart of the site, which would account for more than 40 per cent of the development area.
“We are also preparing a series of reports and assessments that will address any environmental impacts.
“Orchard Brae believes that the development will lead to the creation of a truly sustainable community - socially, culturally, environmentally and economically - including considerable investment in the long-term economic future of North Lanarkshire, and the creation of around 1,200 direct jobs.
“We continue to welcome all views on the proposals and expect to embark on a second round of consultation in the autumn where further public feedback will be sought and taken into account as we look to further shape our plans.”