Robinson’s Common set to become a community sports hub

Councillors with local residents on the new multi-use games area

Robinson’s Common on Moss Street, Rochdale is seeing major improvements to the recreational space that currently includes a children’s play area and open space for sports.

Funded by section 106 contributions from nearby housing developers, the plans include a free to use a multi-use games area (MUGA), community allotments and an outdoor gym.

The 40-metre long facility will have pitch markings for five-a-side football, netball and basketball.

Community allotments will be managed by local community group Petrus. Petrus are a local charity that provides supported housing and skills development to homeless people.

The council consulted with the friends of Robinson’s Common, Petrus, schools and residents in the design process of this ambitious scheme.

The first phase of the improvements is near completion and the game area is ready to be opened to the public. The outdoor gym and community allotment sites are due to follow later this. The work includes new footpaths, drainage systems, floodlighting and tree planting schemes that will improve site facilities.

Councillor Daalat Ali, Rochdale Borough Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for planning, development & housing said: “I’m delighted at how this project is taking shape. The multi-use games area will be ready for use shortly and phase two, which will include the new outdoor gym, will start this spring.”

Rochdale Borough Council has recently extended two other play areas in Denehurst Park and at Ings Lane as part of the green spaces plan.