Saddleworth school site: Diggle chosen

Headteacher Matthew Milburn at the existing school in Uppermill

SADDLEWORTH School is on the move from Uppermill to Diggle following a decision by education chiefs.

The Education Funding Agency (EFA) carried out a feasibility study on four possible locations — two on the existing site in Uppermill and two in Diggle. Land at the back of the former WH Shaw Pallet Works in Diggle is now the preferred option — a decision supported by Saddleworth School and Oldham Council. The new school could be open by spring, 2017.

Head teacher Matthew Milburn said: “We know the location of the new school has been a contentious issue and it was absolutely right that all possible options were evaluated and all interests considered.

“We welcome confirmation of the preferred site and are now keen to get working to get the detail right and deliver the fantastic school Saddleworth has long needed.”

The EFA is managing the project on behalf of the Department for Education. Diggle will provide the largest possible site for the new school — around 18 acres in size — and will mean dilapidated industrial buildings can be cleared. Greenbelt land will be used only for sports pitches, available for community use.

An EFA spokesperson said: “In the final analysis the site to the rear of the Pallet Works in Diggle stood out as the best option. We are meeting several parties to discuss the findings.”

Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Oldham Council’s Cabinet member for education, said: “I’m pleased this process is complete and the full facts about each site — based on intrusive survey works — were considered.

“I’d urge the community to join us in focusing our energy on developing a scheme that balances the range of views and works best for everyone.

“We know there are challenges associated with the chosen Diggle site in terms of vital works needed. Oldham Council has committed to undertaking these works to support the successful delivery of the project.”