Park awaits trust verdict

A ruling on whether disputed land at Failsworth Lower Memorial Park is a charitable trust could be revealed before the end of the month.

The Charity Commission has told Oldham Council that it expects to give a final decision within a fortnight.

The council sent more archive documents to the commission in December.

They relate to how land to the south of the Failsworth Lower Memorial Park, —potentially affected by Oldham Athletic’s plans to build a new stadium, — was provided.

The commission previously said that although the the deeds to the land do not declare a charitable trust, it could still be charitable land.

Records show Failsworth War Memorial Committee was involved in the purchase with Failsworth Urban District Council in 1924.

Councillor Mohib Uddin, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “It is vitally important for all parties affected by these proposals that we get absolute clarity about the legal status of this land.

“The Charity Commission has told us it is seeking further advice on the documentation we gave them.

“We now expect to receive a final ruling from them within two weeks and will release this information as soon as we get it.”