Critics barge in over canal work

TOWPATH improvement work in Chadderton that resulted in the closure of a footpath have been criticised by residents.

Oldham Council’s £70,000 programme on the Rochdale canal from Foxdenton Lane in Chadderton to the Rochdale border helped to boost cycling lanes along the canalside.

But the scheme meant closure of the footpath from Rookwood to the canal, reducing access for older people.

An alternate route involved crossing two major roads or getting to the canal down a flight of narrow, steep stone steps.

Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and co-operatives, said the council closed the path due to concerns over crime.

“The need to protect residents outweighed the inconvenience of having to travel less than half a mile to get to the canal,” she said.