NATURE lovers are at loggerheads over peat extraction methods on Astley Moss.

Land from which until recently peat was extracted by block cutting has now been given the all-clear for the newer surface milling method.

Ecologists have conflicting views on the best method when considering nature conservation.

But people in isolated mossland homes near the site say the damage to nature has already been done.

This week Wigan planners approved Joseph Metcalf Ltd's request for permission to modify a Section 106 agreement for surface milling the land.

Mineral extraction permission for the site does not expire until 2011 and the afteruse plan is a nature conservation area.

One moss dweller told The Journal:"They've already cleared the site ready for working, they've killed-off all the vegetation and with it have gone nesting curlews and all other forms of wildlife.

"The area is a Site of Specific Scientific Interest - the authorities should not allow this. It will turn the Moss into a wasteland."

A Council spokesman:"Two-thirds of the site is in Salford and they were minded to allow modification of the Section 106 agreement.

"The developer does not need planning permission to work the peat by the milling method."

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