Leader: If we don't build - others will

OPEN land in Cowlishaw, Shaw

IS THERE a need to build so many homes in Oldham under the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework?

That was the question posed by Lib-Dem councillor Howard Sykes. Following up his question to council leader Jean Stretton, he asked why the burden has fallen on Shaw, Crompton and Royton rather than sharing the issue equally across the borough.

Councillor Stretton said in response: "Unfortunately I have to say I'm convinced that we do need to make this investment because there has been a failure to make that investment for many years.

"If we don't make the investment in Oldham, others will.

"I am pleased to hear you say people are turning out to the consultation events because as a result of that consultation it may well be that the proposals change.

"If we do not have a strategic proposal we leave ourselves open in a position where developers can make a case for every single bit of land."

More than 200 residents previously turned out for a public consultation event with a second due to be held yesterday. Councillor Sykes expressed his grievance that more than 3,000 new homes are to be built on green field sites in Shaw and Crompton alone.

He raised concerns about overcrowded primary schools, "dilapidated" health centres and lack of swimming or dry leisure.

In a separate question, Lib-Dem Shaw parish councillor Paul Turner asked what Oldham Council had done in preparation for the proposed houses in the borough under the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework. He raised concerns over the lack of school places for incoming residents.

In response to his question Labour councillor Amanda Chadderton said: "This is only an initial consultation. The final plan doesn't come in until the end of 2018. When we get to the end we will get a plan."