CAR BOOT king Richard Scott is to sell a plot of land at Prestbury Road, Wilmslow.
He is in talks with a buyer over the sale of up to four acres and expects to conclude the deal this week.
The sale has been forced because of "economic pressures facing the farming industry," he said.
But his plans have led to fears among neighbouring property owners who have sought reassurances from planning watchdogs about future use of the site.
Hough ward councillor, Andrew Stephenson, said the greenbelt site would remain in agricultural use.
He said there were rigid restrictions on the use of greenbelt land which would be protected "at all costs."
"Local planning guidelines are very firm on this issue and Macclesfield Borough Council, in particular, is known to stick to its policies.
"There are severe restrictions on use of land in the greenbelt and conditions have to be met in order to obtain any planning permission for any structure on the site.
"This site does not meet any of those conditions. It is an inappropriate site for any structure to be put on it," Coun Stephenson said.
Mr Scott of Pear Tree Farm, Marthall, who has clashed with planners over alleged breach of planning controls in the past said the sale of land was necessary due to economic pressure.
He and his family have farmed in Cheshire for generations and he was "saddened" to sell the plot, he said. "It is the last thing I want to do. It is like selling the family silver," he added.
"I've been offered a very good price for this which will put me in good stead to help me with the pig herd.
"It is a difficult time for farmers, the public does not realise how hard it is, farmers are leaving the industry every week. Farmers are in dire straights. I am trying to diversify with bed and breakfast and car boot sales, but the price for grain is falling and I have to do something."
Fears that the site may be sold to gipsies were sidestepped by Mr Scott: "I do not know the purchaser, that is not my business. I would prefer to know the person but if someone pays the price you ask and that is agreed, then it is sold. It is the same with a house," he said.
