Lib-Dems Launch "Save Rose Cottage" Campaign

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 3rd Oct 2008

Lib Dems Oppose Airport Expansion that Threatens Listed "Rose Cottage"

Wythenshawe Liberal Democrats have launched a campaign to save Manchester's "Rose Cottage", a 17th century Grade II listed building (home to a family of three), from airport expansion.

The cottage, along with three other inhabited historical homes, are under threat from Manchester Airport's latest expansion plans to build two giant air freight cargo warehouses.

The land, described as an ecological paradise, also hosts a 300 year old natural pond home to a colony of EU protected great crested newts and dozens of mature trees.

English Heritage, the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit, the Council for British Archaeology, local councillors and residents all oppose the plans.

Anthony Lowe, 36, lives in Rose Cottage on Hasty Lane with his wife, Jaime and son Oliver, said: "The plans are a disgrace. We rent the cottage from the airport but when we moved in it was practically derelict. We have spent more than £4,000 redecorating it."

Lib Dem councillor Martin Eakins, said:

"The application is nothing short of cultural barbarism. To bulldoze such a beautifully maintained historic dwelling and make four families homeless, would be heartbreaking."

Cllr Eakins concluded:

"I would encourage everyone who opposes these plans to sign our online petition before the crucial Planning Committee vote on the 23rd October:

http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/RoseCottage"

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