Local Green Space Designation — Ryebank Fields

Ryebank Fields is a 4.6-hectare site of open land in Chorlton, Manchester. It is one of the last remaining areas of semi-natural green space in the area and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including rare orchids, butterflies and birds.

Manchester City Council's Local Plan (Regulation 19 stage) proposes to allocate Ryebank Fields for housing development. The Ryebank Fields Community Group (RFCG) strongly opposes this and is calling for the site to be designated as Local Green Space (LGS) instead.

LGS designation would give Ryebank Fields the same level of protection as Green Belt land, preventing development except in very special circumstances. RFCG has submitted a formal representation to the Planning Inspectorate making the case for LGS designation.

Why Ryebank Fields qualifies for Local Green Space designation

• Close proximity to the community it serves

  Ryebank Fields lies immediately adjacent to residential neighbourhoods in Chorlton and is within easy walking distance for thousands of local residents.

• Local significance — not just any green space

  The site holds deep local significance as a cherished natural retreat, used daily by walkers, families, dog owners, and nature enthusiasts.

• Special to the local community

  Ryebank Fields is valued for its beauty, tranquillity, and rich biodiversity — including rare bee orchids, common spotted orchids, and a wide range of butterfly and bird species.

• Not an extensive tract of land

  Ryebank Fields is a contained and clearly defined area and, at 4.6 hectares, is not an extensive tract of land. It is therefore well suited to consideration for Local Green Space designation under national planning policy.

Regulation 19 Representation

RFCG submitted a formal Regulation 19 representation to the Planning Inspectorate in September 2026, requesting that Ryebank Fields be included as a Local Green Space in Manchester City Council's Local Plan. The full representation and supporting appendices are available below.

Supporting Appendices

• Appendix 1 — Evidence Bundle (Part 1)
• Appendix 2 — Evidence Bundle (Part 2)
• Appendix 3 — Evidence Bundle (Part 3)
• Appendix 4 — Evidence Bundle (Part 4)