Housing minister denies Oldham’s bid to withdraw from Greater Manchester housing plan

However, Mr Pennycook said he could see “no justification” to approve Oldham’s request to withdraw from the plans.

The Places for Everyone scheme, which include 11,500 homes in Oldham and is set for delivery by 2039, garnered controversy over the inclusion of green belt land, despite the development taking a “brownfield-first” approach.

In February, Oldham’s cross-party councillors narrowly voted in favour of revoking the town’s participation in the proposals. A group of Liberal Democrat, Conservative and independent councillors have been demanding the council pulls out of the joint scheme since the local elections in May 2024, when Labour lost its majority in Oldham.

In his letter, Mr Pennycook described Places for Everyone as “an example of authorities doing the right thing”, saying he could see “no justification” to approve the request to withdraw from it. He also said Oldham “may wish to provide further reasons and justification for revocation”.

He added: “The government has been clear in its commitment to the plan-led system. Local plans provide the stability and certainty that communities, businesses, and developers want to see the planning system deliver.

“They are a key tool for encouraging and directing investment in local areas, helping to secure the housing, jobs, and infrastructure that places need. Authorities that fail to maintain an up-to-date plan are failing their communities.”

Elaine Taylor, deputy leader of Oldham Council and cabinet member for decent homes, said: “We’re grateful the government has seen through the reckless attempts by the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives to put our green belt at risk.

“As far as the administration is concerned – this we agree with the government – that this is the right decision for Oldham, we’ve already seen the chaos caused in nearby Stockport by the Liberal Democrats playing silly political games with an issue that’s too important for it.

“Places for Everyone is a brownfield-first plan that protects 97.5% of green belt in Oldham and will deliver much-needed homes for our residents. It’s our job now to make sure we deliver.”