17 hours ago
A huge political spat has broken out... over a playground
A plan to build a playground in Alkrington has been delayed once again.
The suburb, on the edge of Middleton, had seen a number of playgrounds close down in recent years.
The decision over where to build a new one has dragged on for years, with squabbles between politicians and locals over the most suitable spot.
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Last month, it appeared the matter was finally settled when rochdale-council>Rochdale council's township committee in Middleton approved funding of £84,840 for the new playground on a field off Mainway and Moss Lane.
The money is expected to go towards paths, fencing, swings, see-saws and other play equipment.
But now Labour councillors, who approved the funding, have been left furious after two Middleton Independent Party (MIP) politicians called in the decision.
'Calling in' a decision opens up the matter for further scrutiny if politicians feel there is an issue that hasn't properly been addressed. The call-in will mean further delays to a project that has already dragged since 2023.
A statement issued by Middleton Labour read: 'The South Middleton councillors believe it is a disgrace that a legitimately arrived and very popular decision can be delayed without good cause by the MIP councillors' petty behaviour, especially when they do not have any seats in the South Middleton Ward.
'The decision taken to go ahead on May 22 was taken with 12 Labour councillors voting for, and two MIPs not even voting against - they abstained.
'Now they want to revoke the decision depriving kids of a long awaited play park in South Alkrington. We must add 1,200 Alkrington residents have signed a petition in favour of this new play park, backing our decision.
'The 'call-in' decision will take place at the end of July. However, South Middleton councillors had hoped to get spades in the ground this year to start building the play park.
'This will prevent planning and organisation until this 'call-in' decision is taken, which will inevitably delay the erection of the play park for many months.'
Although other sites were considered by the local authority, Mainway field was the largest open space available, meaning potential noise and antisocial behaviour would be less of an issue. A council report went on to say they will look into mine shafts under the field as well as drainage issues before any building work.
Lee Wolf, leader of the MIP, believes there was a lack of consultation before the process and has questioned the impartiality of the decision making.
He said: "Our involvement in this matter began last year when I stood as the MIP candidate for Middleton South. From the outset, the site of the proposed play park in Alkrington emerged as a key issue for local residents.
'We have always supported the development of new recreational facilities across Middleton. These spaces are vital for families and young people, and we believe they should be delivered through a process that is fair, transparent, and inclusive of the community's voice.
'However, we have serious concerns about how the decision to site the play park at Mainway Field was reached.
'Our two MIP councillors could not support the report, as it failed to provide a clear and consistent rationale for selecting Mainway Field.
'Throughout this process, our aim has never been to obstruct progress. We want to work collaboratively with all stakeholders, including our Labour colleagues, to find a solution that genuinely reflects the needs and wishes of the community. There is still room for compromise, whether that means revisiting alternative sites or reconsidering the exact positioning within Mainway Field.
'We remain committed to ensuring that decisions about our shared spaces are made openly, fairly, and with the full involvement of the people who live here. Our community deserves nothing less.'
Rochdale council confirmed the matter has been called in and will be discussed further at meeting next month.
