Campaign launched to save popular footpath

The Moorgate level crossing

Respected community groups are launching a high profile campaign to ensure an ancient Saddleworth footpath remains open.

Network Rail propose to close the Moorgate level crossing in Uppermill as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade.

But a Campaign Group established by Ramblers Association, Peak and Northern Footpaths Society, Saddleworth Pedestrians, Wednesday Walkers (Oldham) and Saddleworth Parish Council plan to lobby Network Rail to install a footbridge as a replacement for the crossing.

They want the footpath leading to the centre of Uppermill to remain open and not be diverted down Ladcastle Road to an another footpath which leads down to a railway underpass.

Ken Smith, the group’s spokesman, said: “The level crossing is a well-used part of a very historic public right of way.

“Network Rail originally proposed a footbridge at a cost of £1.2m as a replacement but then abandoned the plans citing increased costs of £4.5m.

“They now intend to do improvement works to the footpath further down Ladcastle Road.

“This footpath has a dangerous flight of stone steps at the top and exits on to Oldham Road near Wade Lock where there is no pavement, very dangerous and it adds a quarter of a mile to the route.

"Network Rail are proposing to spend quarter of a million pounds on upgrading this footpath - surely this money would be better spent on a footbridge which is what the community deserves?

 “Our group does not believe this footpath can ever be made safe for the increased number of pedestrians that would have to use it. 

“Network Rail is refusing to reconsider the installation of a footbridge and intends to seek authority to close the crossing as part of a Transport and Works Act Order submission to the Secretary of State.”

Objections would be considered at a Public Inquiry, but the campaigners have questioned the cost increases, suggested alternative bridge designs, made comparisons with footbridges being installed on other sections of the route and are now actively seeking support from key local politicians and Government Ministers.

For more information or to join the campaign, please e-mail: moorgatefootbridge@gmail.com

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