Petition backs Diggle site

AN online petition has been launched BACKING the building of Saddleworth’s new £17million secondary school in Diggle.

The campaign, by the Save Saddleworth School group, opposes the Save Diggle Action Group’s battle to have the new 1,500-student development built on the school’s existing site in Uppermill.

The move comes after furious locals stormed out of a Saddleworth Parish Council meeting. Councillors had agreed a motion to build the new school in Diggle, to cries of “shame on you” and “disgrace”.

Villagers have since discussed the merits of the parish council itself.

But the petition — Build Saddleworth School in Diggle — says: “It’s the only course of action that will guarantee secondary education remains in the borough. Don’t lose your chance to make sure this happens.”

The petition states: “The current site is not fit for purpose and the existing building is not financially viable for refurbishment.” More than 100 people have so far signed up, so it will be sent automatically to Oldham Council and the EFA.

A planning submission for a new school is expected in the next couple of months when the public will be able to send comments and objections about the plans to Oldham Council.