Youth service move leaves councillors angry

COUNCIL cuts have seen youth services move out of the Satellite Centre in Wellington Road, Greenfield

THE transfer of youth services from a popular centre in Greenfield has led to dismay among Saddleworth councillors.

Youth services will in future be handled by Oldham “youth zone”, Mahdlo, under a widespread devolution of youth services brought about by a cut in the council budget of millions of pounds.

Saddleworth parish councillors have expressed fears over youth activities moving to Mahdlo in Oldham centre.

Councillor Robert Knotts said: “Without any consultation with the parish council or the community at large, Oldham Council has robbed the youth of Saddleworth of a safe environment for leisure activities.

“Instead, they offer Madhlo without consideration being given to the routes, timings and public transport costs which act as a deterrent to use. The council has yet again treated the Saddleworth community with total disdain.”

The Greenfield centre itself won’t close: Oldham Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and co-operatives Barbara Brownridge confirmed the building will still be available for other community activities.

Councillor John Hudson said: “It isn’t just Saddleworth that is suffering, this is happening across the borough.”