PROTESTERS in Hindley Green want to turn fields into a village green to block a controversial housing development.

Members of WASP (Wildlife and Social Preservation) have delivered a village green application to Wigan Metro in their long-running campaign to stop building on 22 acres at Belvedere Farm.

The chairman of the group, John Vickers, claimed 250 people had backed the bid for the village green with letters of support.

Protesters are also considering a high court action after Wigan planning councillors approved outline plans to build homes on the land off Carr Common Road north of the A577 in September 1999.

Wigan Council owns part of the land in the development area.

Mr Vickers said: "This land has long been enjoyed by custom and practise by the people of Hindley Green who have no intention of watching it bulldozed away for a quick buck.

"In applying for the controversial Belvedere Farm to be given village green status, WASP hopes to once and for all obtain protection from development for this site rich in diverse habitats and home to protected species and also retain the open space so valued by the area's residents."

A Wigan Council spokesman said the application would first be considered by their legal team to decide its legality before it would then be considered by a special committee.