Hollin - from Middleton to Heywood?

A review ‘at the earliest opportunity’ of the representation of the Hopwood Hall ward that covers Hollin is to take place following an amendment to a motion passed at last night’s (Wednesday) full annual meeting of Rochdale Council.

The amendment moved by Councillor Taylor and seconded by Councillor William Hobhouse was: "...subject to the Chief Executive being asked to bring forward at the earliest opportunity proposals to consider the representation of the Hopwood Hall ward on the Heywood and Middleton Township Committees and membership of the Township Committees being amended if necessary as a result of the review."

At present the three ward councillors serve on both Middleton and Heywood Townships. But the review could mean Hollin, and its 2,500 residents would be represented solely at the Heywood Township – effectively ending the estate’s representation in Middleton.

Following angry exchanges in the council chamber, and a call for a named vote, the amendment was passed 39 votes to 19.

All three Hopwood Hall councillors voted against the motion, as did Labour councillors currently serving Middleton north, east, west and south wards. But the two Conservative councillors holding two seats in south Middleton did not oppose the plan out right.

Talking to Rochdale Online, Labour Party leader, Councillor Colin Lambert said the people of Hollin are furious and he is called for a public consultation.