A controversial scheme for more than 100 homes on the border of Chorlton and Stretford is up for an initial consultation.

Developers Step Places and Southway Housing Trust want to build 120 homes next to Longford Park on Ryebank Fields.

Given by Manchester City Council to Manchester Metropolitan University for use as sports fields, the site has been abandoned for more than 25 years and it has been rewilded as a result.

The developers want to retain some of the space between Longford Park and Ryebank Fields, but to build 120 homes on the rest of the space, all of them to so-called Passivhaus Standards. 

These are a set of requirements in relation to energy efficiency, with the target of a reduction in both bills and emissions.

The plan is up for an initial consultation until the end of next week, then another consultation later in the year before the plan is submitted to Manchester City Council.

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A spokesperson said: "We are delighted to share our plans for Ryebank Fields with the community. Both Step Places and Southway Housing Trust share the vision to deliver high-quality, affordable and sustainable homes for the people of Chorlton, promoting a sense of community. 

"We welcome this opportunity for members of the public to learn about the scheme and submit their feedback whilst the public consultation is open."

This is a controversial scheme as a result of opposition from campaigners, some of whom set up a community camp on the site almost two years ago.

There is also the prospect of a protest at the time of an exhibition event at Longford Stadium this afternoon (February 2).

"This is not a done deal," a post on Facebook by Friends of Ryebank Fields reads. "Everybody should have a voice."

The initial consultation is open until February 10. To contribute, contact ryebankfieldsconsultation@havingyoursay.co.uk or go to ryebankfieldsconsultation.co.uk.

People can also contact 0333 358 0502 or write to Freepost SHAPE TOMORROW, Queens House, Queens Street, Manchester M2 5HT.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.