Rochdale Township Meeting as it happened

A report from GMP opens the meeting.

The police are raising the issue of number plate theft.

Motorbike nuisance is also being raised by the police. Police are aware of a slight increase in issues in Kingsway and Kirkholt and are working to resolve the issues.

Police state that the Tour de France went “really really well” with no issues apart from traffic congestion which cleared in a few hours.

The open forum is next.

Residents from Greenbank Road are putting councillors to task regarding travellers in the area. Many residents are frustrated and emotional regarding the ongoing situation and want it sorted now.

The Police state that they have to follow the law when dealing with this issue and are working to move the travellers on. The travellers are due to move from the site on Cronkeyshaw Common on Friday with an eviction notice being served.

Councillors add that they want this issue resolved for the residents and want to see action taken.

A budget presentation is given next. Councillor Cecile Biant praises officers for doing a “super job” on the report.

The need for additional school places is discussed next.

The report is asking for members views on the need for extra places. Consultation is ongoing with schools until Friday regarding the need for extra places.

WW1 Commemorations and Capital Funding is reported next. It is stated that RRG Toyota in Rochdale were the first company to sign the Armed Forces Community Covenant.

WW1 Commemoration plans including street renaming, flag raising ceremonies, poppy seed planting and parades are discussed.

Section 106 Open Space money is discussed next. The Township has around £50,043 for open space improvements. Money for land improvement at Rhodes Crescent is discussed and approved.

The Gracie Fields Strategy is discussed next.

Work will be undertaken to improve the Molesworth Street stone, the blue plaque trail is also an idea as is a permanent statue/memorial within the town. A number of  councillors described Gracie as “magic” and want to see these plans go ahead.

Councillors support the plans.

Meeting ended.