Footbridge opened in memory of Sparth resident

Photo: Jan Harwood

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen cuts the ribbon to officially open the new-look Oakenrod Bridge alongside Mayor Robin Parker, members of Eileen Sinclair's family, and Sparth residents.

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The refurbished Oakenrod footbridge has been re-opened in memory of a Sparth resident who campaigned for years to get the bridge redeveloped before she passed away earlier this year.

Eileen Sinclair, a grandmother of six who lived in the area for nearly 40 years and attended Oakenrod School, will have a plaque placed at the bridge in memory of her life and contribution to getting the old, collapsing bridge redeveloped.

Julia Glover, of St Vincent's Housing Association, said at the re-opening of the bridge: "Eileen was very vocal about getting the bridge sorted out. Eileen was a friend to most people in this area and she always said what she thought.

"The bridge has been a key feature in Sparth for hundreds of years and it is wonderful to get it restored. It will be here for years to come for everyone to enjoy."

Julia's sentiments by Rochdale MP Paul Rowen, who officially opened the bridge this afternoon (Friday 19 September). He said: "This bridge is a fitting tribute to Eileen and all those in Sparth who have not been afraid to have their two penneth and get things done.

"There is still work to be done in this area but the traffic calming measures and now the bridge are evidence of the strong partnership between St Vincent's and the people of Sparth."

The funding to renovate the bridge came from the Impact Partnership. Substandard metal handrails have been replaced by stone walls and the original granite cobbled paving was cleaned and replaced. A new bollard was also fitted to prevent access by unauthorised vehicles.