A surprise decision was taken by planning committee members to reject Miller Homes' scheme to build a new housing estate on the site of the historic Hilton Park ground off Kirkhall Lane in March.


They voted unanimously to back a strong protest plea by Wigan Council leader Lord Peter Smith, who claimed the development would create traffic chaos and threaten pedestrian safety in the area.


Coun Smith argued that the access routes chosen by Miller Homes would be unable to cope with the extra traffic generated by the proposed 99 home development.


At the time he pointed out that the area was built in the 19th century and claimed that the area would become unsafe for children, the streets being the only place where they could play locally.


Miller Homes Alan Young insisted that the developers could meet the concerns of residents with 'local' speed calming measures.


Miller Homes have now appealed against the committee's decision and a date set for the public tribunal.
It will take place on October 29.