Public urged to have their say on school access

OVERALL look of the new buildings

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HIGHWAY access to the new Saddleworth School in Diggle will be the subject of four consultation events before detailed planning permission is sought.

A bitter war of words has raged since it was announced the school would move from its current site in Uppermill to the back of the WH Shaw palletworks site in Diggle.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Oldham Cabinet member for housing, planning and highways, said: “These highway options are very flexible and we are willing to listen to all points of view. We would ask all interested parties to attend one of these exhibition events to learn more and have their say.

“We understand concerns that have been expressed on issues relating to highways, access and children’s safety — and those are our clear priority here. We want these drop-in events and online surveys to encourage participation and open discussion. We look forward to working together to find the best solutions we possibly can.”

Diggle will provide the largest possible site for the new school — around 18 acres in size — and will see dilapidated industrial buildings cleared to make way. The increase in size will allow the school to take an extra 150 pupils. Greenbelt land will only be used for sports pitches, which will also be available for community use.

The council says it is committed to making road improvements in the area, including the junction of Huddersfield Road and Stanedge Road, the widening of footpaths, and measures to slow traffic along Huddersfield Road. It is consulting on options for highways works as it consults on the school proposals.

Further details and the chance to provide feedback can be found at www.oldham.gov.uk.

Feedback will be reviewed and, where the project team feel amendments could and should be made to respond to comments received, changes will be incorporated into the design.

A dedicated new website — www.newsaddleworthschool.co.uk — shows plans for the £19 million school in more detail and allows for online feedback.

The consultation events will be on June 3 (3.30-7.30pm) at the Satellite Centre in Wellington Road, Greenfield; June 8 (3.30-7.30pm) at St Chad’s Church in Lee Side, Kiln Green, and June 11 and 22 (4-7.30pm) at Saddleworth School, Uppermill. The council will also hold private discussions with residents.