Public urged to have a say on new school

SADDLEWORTH residents are being urged to make final submissions ahead of the selection of the site for the new £19million secondary school.

Last month the Education Funding Agency published an 82-page feasibility study reviewing four potential sites and stated a preference for the former WH Shaw Pallet Works site in Diggle.

Oldham Council Cabinet will make a final decision - subject to council ratification - on the choice on March 30.

The council has issued a final call for submissions and comments before public consultation ends on March 18.

Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Cabinet member for education, said: “This has been a lengthy process which has provoked a high level of debate, ongoing dialogue and investigative work. I would urge everyone from across the community to register their vote immediately on this very important issue, which will affect future generations.

“Oldham Council has promised to listen so it is essential for people to register their views.”

A spokesman for the Save Diggle Action Group said: “We are delighted Oldham Council is finally seeking the views of the people of Saddleworth on the choice of school site.

“The fact they have also stated categorically that they will make the final decision is also welcome.

“It is surprising this consultative exercise was not announced at the council meeting on February 4 and, in view of this intention, why the council ignored the input of 3,000 petitioners and prematurely voted to locate the school in Diggle.”

Copies of the EFA study — and the frequently asked questions (FAQs) — are available online at www.oldham.gov.uk and www.saddleworth.oldham.sch.uk.