A footbridge linking the garden centre and Woolpack playing fields in Dobcross has been closed for quite some time. Residents were given hope in April 2020 when Oldham council had placed the bridge on a list for repairs using flooding money

Liberal Democrat Councillor for Saddleworth North Garth Harkness has asked for clarity and can confirm that Oldham council have made a mistake

The Ramblers Association and Dobcross Village Community had been working on a Right of way application.

Councillor Garth Harknesss said

“After a long time campaigning, like many residents, I was thrilled to hear that the bridge was planned to be repaired and then following discussions with the DVC group and Ramblers Association there seemed to be something wrong. I have now been told that there was a mix up between different departments at Oldham council but they have reverted back to the original position that it is a private bridge and they will not repair it. This is very disappointing news”

The bridge was included on a list of £725,000 worth of work in April 2020

Councillor Garth Harkness added

“The path is not a definitive right of way, however, there has been a path at this

location for about 25 years and I asked  the council about 18 months ago that this be explored and progress has been slow. The DVC and Ramblers Association have been working on an application for a “Right of way” and the misinformation in a council press release has delayed it . It is a private bridge but if it is a Right of way we can put pressure on the owners to repair it”

“We need to keep on and get what the residents want and get this bridge re-opened

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