Double yellow lines outside Chadderton dental practice 'could put patient safety at risk'

A Chadderton Dental Practice has criticised an Oldham Council proposal for double yellow parking lines outside its Middleton Road premises, citing that patient safety could be placed at risk.

The Council have proposed yellow lines outside the Firwood Dental Practice.

Currently it is open to consultation and objection to the public, until Monday (March 13).

The reason that has been given is to improve the safety and visibility when entering and exiting the private drive next to the Dental Practice.

However, Firwood Dental Practice owner Dr Natalie Milner has told the Chronicle: "Patient safety will be affected.

"We have over 400 patients over the ages of 65 - many with mobility issues, some with wheelchairs, some with walking frames and some with walking sticks. 

"We also have over 200 patients under the age of five.

"If these more vulnerable groups are forced to park across the road, then their safety is at risk when crossing the road.

"There has been a Dental Practice established at this address for over 40 years.

"On-site parking is integral for the viability of the business.

Dr Milner, who has met with the Highway Department at Oldham Council, suggested that an alternative solution would be to copy the junction of Middleton Road and Gainsborough Road and push the give way out and create parking bays. 

Responding to Dr Milner's concerns and observations, Oldham Council have confirmed that residents' safety remains a priority for them.

Councillor Hannah Roberts, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “The safety of residents is a priority for the council.

“The double yellow lines have been proposed after concerns were raised with us around highway safety for both vehicles and pedestrians.

“At this stage, these are proposals and we’d like to make it clear no decisions been made.

“We welcome the views of residents and we’d urge people to take part in the consultation.

“Details of the order may be examined between the hours of 8.40am and 5pm on Monday to Friday at the Civic Reception.

"Alternatively, residents are able to request a copy of the proposals using the email provided within the notice.”

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