Fears raised over village ‘rat-run’ traffic debate

THE decision to build a new Saddleworth School in Diggle has brought fears of increased traffic.

Independent Saddleworth parish councillor Robert Knotts, a retired RAF logistics expert, said: “A major and extremely important issue faced by building a new school in Diggle is traffic along one very narrow road which feeds into the village.

“Transport logistics will require the arrival and departure of up to 15 buses, an estimated 300 cars delivering children and 150 staff cars along this narrow road.

“All movements will take place in very short time periods in the morning and afternoon on a road not designed for such a volume.

“In addition, the road has to accommodate existing public and private transport used by 2,000 Diggle residents. Safety, together with the impact of noise and fumes on the environment, also need consideration.

“EFA advises the contractor’s application for planning permission for the new school will include a Green Travel Plan. Surely the traffic issue should have been part of the site selection criteria?”

Veteran parish councillor Royce Franklin, a Diggle resident, said: “I hope the building of a new school can be finished as quickly as possible. It has to be acknowledged there will be a traffic problem and this has to be dealt with.”

Further issues were raised in Dobcross which villagers believe could be used as a short cut by parents carrying children in cars to the new school.

Marilyn McNeill, chair of Dobcross Village Community, said: “Our group is concerned about the impact of additional traffic on our village.

“We have already seen a huge increase in traffic along narrow roads and a congested village centre.

“With the school in Diggle the village will become a ‘rat run’ and as a group we will be approaching the highways department with our concerns.

“Personally, I am very disappointed the views of the people of Saddleworth have been completely ignored.”

Saddleworth and Lees Liberal Democrats called for residents to get behind the Diggle site.

Lib-Dem Parliamentary candidate for Oldham East and Saddleworth Richard Marbrow said: “Now that the decision has been made, it is time for everyone to get behind the new school and to work to solve any problems residents will now face.