FEELINGS ran high as 300 people crammed into the Longfield Suite to have their say on the controversial plans to redevelop the former Sainsbury's site in Prestwich.

Many wanted to know more about the proposed Richardson's development, some tentatively spoke in support of the scheme,-- but the overwhelming opinion of the crowd was a resounding "No!"

The special area board meeting was arranged to discuss the future of the land vacated by the supermarket after concerns were raised in the community.

Board members and planning officers were present to listen to the views of local people, as was a panel of eight representatives from the side of the developers.

The application, submitted by Richardsons (with MCO Developments) and Countryside Residential Properties, includes plans to build a retail and residential complex on the former supermarket site.

The development will include a first-floor car park for residents plus three apartment blocks of four, five and six storeys, taking the building to eight storeys in parts.

The ground floor would be dedicated to high street shops.

But residents said the development was more suited to Manchester as it was too high, would compound traffic problems and have a detrimental impact on surrounding buildings.

Resident Maurice Fitzgerald said: "The traffic situation will be horrendous. The developer's term is that the impact will be 'minimal' but it will be horrendous. There are two primary schools, an over 60s club, and a mothers' and toddlers' group in Fairfax Road. The situation for cars will be terrible and pedestrians might as well stay at home."

Concerned about the height of the building, Mr Brian Miller said: "It will be six-and-a-half times the height of the Metrolink bridge. Is this in keeping with Prestwich? It is not a city, not a town, but a village. I find this totally unacceptable."

Worries about the building causing more subsidence in an area that already suffered from the problem were also raised.

Other people questioned the need for more residential provision and suggested that another food retailer should take over the site.

Particular emphasis was put on the effect of the "monstrosity" on Our Lady of Grace Church (OLOG) and the presbytery, with one resident claiming it was a human rights issue that the buildings would be left without sunlight.

A local referendum was called for so people could vote on the issue and the developers were asked to "lop" three storeys off the development.

Although criticism of the multi-million pound scheme came thick and fast, the experts were on hand to answer questions.

The developers admitted there was a problem with traffic on Fairfax Road but insisted that the additional traffic would be "minimal" and changes to the traffic lights would allow more cars to get onto Bury New Road with each green light.

Lee Richardson, of Richardson's said: "It will not be in our interests to have traffic problems on the site. It will be unlettable."

The same answer was put forward on the subject of subsidence, with Mike Schorah, of architects, the Harris Partnership, confirming that a thorough ground investigation had been carried out.

Mark Thompson, of Countryside Residential Properties said about the height of the building: "The highest point is 28 metres and it will become a new focal point for Prestwich village centre. It will be a catalyst for regeneration in Prestwich."

He added that the innovative design of the apartments meant that as the sun moved round during the day, the light would filter through the blocks and Fairfax Road would still benefit from morning and evening sun.

Supporter Frank Adam, a former councillor for Sedgley ward, agreed and said he had done his own calculations.

He faced scorn from the crowd for showing his support but added: "I do believe it is a big building but it is an architectural attraction. I have looked at the angle of the building and windows in Fairfax Road will not be interfered with by the shadow of the building."

Another supporter was Liz Bennett, of Rectory Lane, who was also heckled for voicing her opinion.

In response she said: "You have concerns about the height and design, but look who you are, who you represent. What is the average age here tonight? Do you represent the younger end of the scale? I have talked to a lot of people, taxi drivers, in the Halifax, at the school gate, and there is support. With this we will create an increased sense of security which we would all value."

Harry Johnston, of R&G Construction, in Heywood Road, added: "Architecture needs to be controversial to work and this is controversial. I hope it works."

The last word against the development went to Monsignor John Allen, the priest at OLOG Church, whom Coun Paul Nesbit allowed six minutes to speak instead of the obligatory three.

He said: "I am in favour of redevelopment for Prestwich and supported the scheme put forward 12 months ago but not this overdevelopment. This monstrosity of a plan is detrimental to Prestwich and the surrounding buildings. When the pile driver starts near a building already suffering from subsidence, then the developers may just get a bill for rebuilding."

Simon Miller, of MCO Developments, said their significant investment would help address the decline suffered as a result of the Tesco supermarket and be a catalyst for change.

He said: "With our investment of £16 or £17 million in the village, the likes of Next, Boots, Clinton Cards and Birthdays could follow. They have said they like the location but want further investment before they come in as well. We will also invest £300,000 in the Longfield Centre and the works would not go ahead without it."

Speaking after the meeting he said their job now was to go away and reflect on what had been said but added that a lot of thought had gone into the application in the first place.

"I hope the people have also listened to what we have to say," he added.

Minutes from the meeting will be passed on to the planning department, the executive committee and full council.

MP Ivan Lewis did not attend the meeting on Wednesday evening (March 5) but met with Richardson's earlier that day. He asked that they made every attempt to respond to the concerns of some residents and hoped a common ground could be reached.