Moor row goes on over internet

COUNCIL chiefs have defended their plans to make Crompton Moor accessible to all after criticism.

Residents who use the Shaw beauty spot to walk their dogs fear their views are being ignored and are sceptical whether the proposals will bring improvements.

But Oldham Council has launched a website at www.oldham.gov.uk cromptonmoor to show what work it has previously done, what it’s planning to do and give contacts so people can share their views.

It says the plans aim to safeguard the moorland’s future and ensure it is managed for the benefit of all.

Cabinet member for people and communities Councillor Rod Blyth said: “The council is committed to ensuring that Crompton Moor remains an attractive countryside area that is valued and used by local people.

“In order to do this the Crompton Moor project has been set up to help the council gain the detailed information that is required in order to ensure that the right decisions are made. The council has a track record second to none in consulting with local people in relation to all its parks and open spaces and the thriving friends groups are testament to this.

“This project at Crompton Moor is just another example of the council listening to local people in order to produce plans that benefit everyone.”

The plans include improving the footpath network for walkers, and bridleways for horse riders, and creating a dedicated mountain biking trail as well as a special trail for disabled scooters to open the countryside to the handicapped.

Mountain bikers creating trails on the moor has upset other users but the council hopes that by providing an official trail it will separate conflicting users and create a safe place for youngsters to practise. Further management of the habitat to encourage more wildlife is also planned. Lottery funding of £30,000 has been secured.

But some residents have formed their own users’ group, saying they feel no matter what they say they will not be able to influence the plans.

They insist they have not objected to the plans but queried whether it’s legal under the Countryside and Right of Way Act 2000, which they claim restricts bicycles use on moorland.

They say pathways left unmended should receive priority and there are health and safety concerns, with systems needed to slow down bikers.

Crompton Moor has been the responsibility of the council for more than 30 years and it says during this time it has been recognised as a site of biological interest with much work carried out to develop and reclaim land from its extensive farming and mining past.

The website states that plans handed to residents were merely “information notes” outlining aspirations for the site with residents views set to influence them.

Crompton Moor user group is open to anyone who wants to contribute with details available on the website.