Save our landmark, say campaigners

COUNCILLOR Linda Dawson (right) and supporters hope to prevent Greenacres Lodge from being demolished. With her (from the left) are Norman Turner, Diane Turner, Paula Kelly, local historians Brenda Wilson and Matt Gilmore, and Councillor Lynne Thompson

CAMPAIGNERS in Greenacres are planning to bombard Oldham Council bosses with letters asking them to preserve a popular landmark.

Greenacres Lodge is a detached 19th century stone-built villa set in its own grounds off Greenacres Road and was used as a residential home for people with learning difficulties until April, 2008.

The council is offering it for sale, either for conversion to a new use, or for demolition and redevelopment.

Waterhead councillor Linda Dawson wants the council to give preference to a buyer who conserve the existing lodge exterior in development plans.

She said: “We know the building has to be sold and the council has a duty to get best value when selling property but can weigh benefit to the community against pure price.”

Four years ago a campaign was launched when the lodge was again put up for sale, including a bid for listed status.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, cabinet member for housing, said: “Oldham Council has decided to sell Greenacres Lodge as the building is surplus to requirements and there are no plans to reoccupy the building in the future.”

Councillor Dawson, who is supporting the preservation campaign, added: “Oldham has lost so much of its heritage. I really hope people will get behind the campaign and write a letter to help secure the future of this lovely building.”

Bids for the building are due by Monday .

Campaigners are urging people to join them in writing to the council leader Jim McMahon — a long-standing champion of Oldham’s historical and architectural heritage — at cllr.j.mcmahon@oldham.gov.uk