Flood approach in Saddleworth questioned by Liberal Democrats

With winter in sight, flooding issues are increasingly a concern for people in Saddleworth. With questions being raised about the approach taken by the Borough Council, the Liberal Democrats on the Parish Council have asked for the evidence that is being used by Oldham Borough Council to make decisions.

They have asked the Borough Council to provide proof that their approach to cleaning drains and gullies works, given the conditions faced in Saddleworth; for the information that OMBC is using to check the impact of housebuilding in Saddleworth on flooding; and how they’re keeping an eye on locations which flood frequently, and what measures they use to address them.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Sam Al-Hamdani said: “This is such a concern to people in Saddleworth, and we want to see is that the decisions taken are sensible and fair. We all know that budgets have been cut, and that there are difficult decisions to be made, but we need to have confidence in the way that decisions are being taken.

Sam Al-Hamdani, shadow cabinet for housing and homelessness

“Despite the Liberal Democrats putting forward proposals to the Borough Council to double the investment in drain and gulley clearing – which have never once been supported by the Conservative councillors in Saddleworth – no increases have been forthcoming.”

The forthcoming Neighbourhood Plan for Saddleworth is due to include a specific section on flooding, and the response from the Borough Council will help to inform the approach taken by the Parish Council.

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