Tip transformed

CELEBRATION . . . residents at the opening of Diggle Tunnel Tip with Oldham Mayor Councillor Shoab Akhtar, Mayoress Shafeena Kausar, Phil Woolas MP, Rev Duncan Rhodes of Kiln Green Church, Margaret Cobbold of Veolia Environmental Trust, Carol Seddon of the Environment Agency, and Stewart Laming of Parks and Countryside Development

Tunnel dump now a green and pleasant land

A “HEROIC struggle” by residents in Diggle has resulted in a picturesque recreational area.

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas officially opened the dramatically improved public space, on derelict land used as a dump for spoil when the famous local railway tunnel was dug.

Entitled “Diggle Tunnel Tip”, to reflect its history, it’s the result of years of hard work and fundraising by members of Diggle 21st Action Group.

The group has carried out much of the work to create the space, with help from Oldham Council.

Residents of all ages, including cubs and scouts and pupils from Diggle School, also mucked in to create the green corner.

Mr Woolas said: “This project is the culmination of a heroic struggle by residents. Green spaces and amenities are vital for all communities. This one is very special, combining history, heritage and oodles of common sense.”

The action group was created in September, 1999, and after consulting villagers, it was decided that the project should be completed in phases.

The first saw the creation of footpaths followed by the planting of trees, wild flowers and bulbs.

The final part of the work involved putting in benches and signs and the creation of a recreation area for young people. A picnic area has also been created and a bridge, donated by Oldham Council, has been built over a stream running through the area.

Pat Cliffe, the group’s secretary, said: “We are delighted to see the realisation of our dream of developing the site, after so many years. We are very grateful for the grant funding that has helped us, and thrilled to see so many local people using and enjoying the new area.”

Funding for the final part of the scheme, which cost around £50,000, came from The Big Lottery Breathing Spaces Fund, Oldham Community Council, the Environment Agency and Oldham Eco Grants.

The Veolia environmental trust also awarded a grant of £21,650 through the landfill communities fund.