Demolition work at Roch Wood sparks residents' concerns

A digger at Roch Wood

Local residents remain concerned about potential vandalism and theft of public land after diggers were spotted demolishing land at Roch Wood off Chichester Street during the first weekend of July.

Roch Wood Nature Park, which is maintained by the council, is a short walk from the town centre and a haven for wildlife. Woodpeckers, dippers and kingfishers are a regular sighting, along with many other woodland species.

However, a demolition firm is understood to have moved beyond the boundaries of the site, demolishing trees and bushes in addition to laying down rubble.

Mark Robinson, assistant director of economy at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We’re aware of residents’ concerns about the work taking place at Roch Wood and we’re investigating.

“Our officers are in regular contact with residents in this area and we’re working with our legal team to try and find a solution to this issue as quickly as possible.”