A PIECE of Newton's history could be reduced to a pile of rubble to make way for a giant regional rail terminal.

But a developer living in the area is determined to preserve Newton Park Farm, off Newton Park Road, which houses rare buildings pre-dating 1066, and stop plans for a freight depot in their tracks.

Businessman Bill Atkinson, of Newton Road, plans to build 37 houses in keeping with the character of the original farm in order to finance the six-figure dream.

However, he fears that the development may be under threat, after the planning application was rejected by St Helens Council last July.

The venture has already incurred costs of more than £100,000 and awaits the decision of a public inquiry in June, leaving the future of the historic site in jeopardy.

Mr Atkinson said: "Everyday the buildings fall into more disrepair - by the winter they will be to the ground.

"And it doesn't stop there. At night kids run riot on my land and people are arrested for shooting grouse on the colliery, so my security service is forced to look after both sites to protect the farm."

Meanwhile, the overheads continue to spiral.

Since the rear of the main house collapsed 18 months ago, £90,000 has been spent on extensive scaffolding to support the crumbling bricks that will cost £700,000 to restore.

Mr Atkinson said: "I'm willing to put my final pennies into this. I believe in doing things properly and preserving Newton's heritage. This venture began when I bought the land four years ago, and this will benefit the area more than a 350 acre rail depot."

A spokesman for English Heritage said: "Newton Hall Farm dating from 1774, is a good example of a small manor house with a large timber-framed barn dating from the 16th century.

"Both buildings have fallen into serious neglect and English Heritage would like to see a solution found to secure their future."

Last week, the Newton and Golborne Guardian revealed that plans for the construction of a freight terminal on the former site of Parkside colliery were expected to be submitted in May, according to St Helens Council.

Despite submitting the original application in October 2003, the development was only rejected last July, as councillors felt preferable sites were available for development.

The farm was also refused due to its close proximity to the colliery, described as a "site of possible change and strategic development". While its location in a Green Belt area and impact on surrounding wildlife were also cited.

l Let us know what you think on this issue. E-mail beckykelly@guardiangrp.co.uk