Two sites withdrawn from Rochdale cemetery consultation

Two possible sites for a new Rochdale Cemetery have been withdrawn from the public consultation this week, after landowners confirmed they are not willing to sell the land.
The site at Bury and Rochdale Old Road/Norden Road (Site 3) will no longer be considered.

The site at Wardle Road (Site 2) will also no longer be considered.

Mark Widdup, Director of Environmental Management said: “As part of the consultation we have been engaged in discussions with the various landowners, and as a result I can confirm that two of the five proposed sites have been withdrawn from the process.

“Although three sites remain for consultation, we are also actively exploring whether any other sites could be added at this stage. People are of course welcome to put forward their suggestions on other possible sites.”

Residents living in the vicinity of the withdrawn sites were contacted in writing yesterday.

The public consultation continues until 31 July.

People can have their say in writing, online at www.rochdale.gov.uk/consultations and in person during locally held drop in evenings. The dates, times and venues for all the planned meetings will be communicated to residents.

Mr Widdup added: “These meetings provide an opportunity to explain our current position regarding cemetery space, as well as giving residents the opportunity to provide us with valuable feedback which will be taken into consideration.”

To request a printed consultation pack email newcemetery@rochdale.gov.uk or write to Rochdale Borough Council, Environmental Management, New Cemetery Consultation, Green Lane, Heywood, Lancs OL10 2DY

After taking the views of local residents into consideration, councillors will consider the findings when the consultation ends and a decision is expected in August 2011.

Construction of the new Rochdale Cemetery would begin early next year, subject to planning approval. 

• http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/57763/towns-new-search-for-cemetery-site