Falinge residents frustrated at ‘big hole’

Photo: David Fenwick-Finn

Derelict site on Old Mill Street, Falinge

Residents living in Falinge are frustrated at nothing been done about a derelict site creating a "big hole" in the middle of their community.

The land, on Old Mill Street, used to house a mill but the mill burnt down around seven years ago. Since then, the mill has been demolished and the site filled with earth.

It is understood that at one point there was planning permission for the land to be used as a car park.

Local resident David Fenwick-Finn said: "Nothing being done about what is literally a huge hole in the middle of our community.”

“There is no fencing round the site and men have been seen on the site 'scrapping’ - the practice of burning the rubber and plastic off wire in order to sell it,” said David.

It is understood that council enforcement officers have been down to the site in the past.

A spokesperson for Rochdale Borough Council said: “The site on Old Mill Street is private land and not owned by the council. In principle, it could be suitable for future redevelopment but we have not received any planning applications. We urge anyone to let us know of illegal activity such as burning taking place by calling 0300 303 8871 and we will investigate.”

David added: “This site is becoming increasingly dangerous, and I feel the situation must be resolved sooner rather than later.”

David has set up a Facebook group which has attracted a number of residents to vent their frustrations about the hole.

David said: “I started the group out of a sense of frustration.”

The group can be found at:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/1468327320063392/?fref=ts