Alkrington Woods re-development

A Middleton beauty spot which has been closed for three years could be revamped and re-opened.

Alkrington Woods, which is between Manchester Old Road and Manchester New Road at the south side of the borough, was closed off in 2005 following a series of “adult” meetings which took place after dark.

But the Friends of Alkrington Woods have applied for funding to not only re-open the site to the public, but to add a brand new visitors centre, children’s play area and recruit rangers to protect the area from notorious behavior.

At a Cabinet meeting on Monday (November 24), the option of “match funding” was discussed, meaning that if the Friends of Alkrington Wood raised £50,000, the Friends could apply for over £500,000.

This money would cover the building of the new centre plus the foundation, landscaping and furnishing of the area to make it suitable for children and families.

Middleton councillor Teresa Fitzsimons said: “It is such a beautiful place and should not be wasted just because there has been trouble there in the past.

“Alkrington Woods has so much natural beauty, with a bird sanctuary, a wild orchid field and fishing facilities, and I would love to see it re-opened.”

Councillor Wera Hobhouse said: “This is an excellent idea but there is always a problem with money, what we really need is a business plan.”

It was decided at the meeting that a business plan must be put forward at the next Cabinet meeting, in order to specify financial plans for the site.

Deputy Leader of Rochdale Council Irene Davidson said: “I hope to see a business plan at the next meeting so we can move this forward.”

The next Cabinet meeting will take place on 15 December at Rochdale Town Hall.