Residents’ concerns over school plan

MODERN vision: an artist’s impression of the new £4million Greenfield Primary School

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Concerns have been raised over a £4 million replacement school for one of Saddleworth’s busiest villages.

Under the plan, Greenfield Primary School will be demolished to make way for a state of the art replacement to boost capacity at the Shaw Street primary.

But Mike Rooke, a member of Greenfield and Grasscroft Residents’ Association, has spoken out ahead of a public consultation on Thursday.

“I sincerely hope Oldham Council has learned from the long and protracted discussions surrounding the new Saddleworth School,” he said. “People will be urging the council to ensure the design and height of the proposed new building is suitable and in keeping with the local environment.

“As a matter of priority the council will be asked to look very closely at the safety implications of increased traffic, as the intake number will be rising to 60 a year.” The number is double the current intake.

When the scheme was announced, head teacher Mike Wood said: “I’m sure pupils, parents, staff and governors will be delighted with these proposals.

“We are a growing school and new facilities would enrich the curriculum and provide new, exciting opportunities for the children of Greenfield and the surrounding area.”

The consultation is open to the public from 6pm-7.30pm.