Stephen Sharp
Green Party
Milnrow & Newhey Ward
I feel it time the residents of Milnrow and Newhey have their environmental, sustainable, and economic well-being represented.
I believe in conserving the precious resources in life by; far more recycling and taking plastic packaging to as near to zero as possible; use of sustainable renewable energy as the way forward; reducing emissions from burning fossil fuels -the only way climate change can realistically be reversed.
I am very disappointed that in 2023 the recycling level in Rochdale is still only 50%.
Extremely concerning is the level of traffic in the ward, including the gridlock during the rush hour especially on the Elizabethan Way, along Wildhouse Lane and into Littleborough. The number of potholes across the whole ward is an absolute disgrace as a direct result of far too much traffic, poor traffic management policy and what appears to be a ‘mend and make do” approach by Rochdale MBC. Rather than closing small stretches of road and filling-in holes with Tarmac, a more strategic plan is required across the borough.
I will properly stand up for Milnrow and Newhey, an area under constant threat from the excessive building, putting our unique environment and residents’ health at risk. This is only going to get worse with the housing development of 46 houses on the Birchenly Manor site, Wildhouse Lane. The environmental impact of this development, along with the extra vehicles it will bring is unacceptable.
I am totally against the development of private/luxury housing around Milnrow, with no planning or forethought for the increased pressure on local services.
I believe that affordable housing is vital in both the homeownership and rental markets, so that everyone can access secure and affordable homes, including social housing.
A bit about me-I retired 2 years ago after many years on the Railway as driver and Station Manager. In 2013, I won the National Award of “Railman of the Year” in recognition of my customer services and work with community rail partnerships, I ended my career managing Heaton Chapel Station near Stockport.
I have lifelong ‘ties’ to this area. I am a Milnrow resident, and my family are originally from Saddleworth and Oldham. I live with my wife Janette and our cat ‘Atticus’ and have grown up children. We play in two brass bands and are life members of the National Trust. My other hobbies are watching Rochdale Hornets and the (slow) restoration of a 1977 MG Midget. We both enjoy travelling, especially to Northumberland, to enjoy the clean air, unspoilt countryside and uncommercialised lifestyle.
Unlike all other Political Parties, ‘Greens’ are not told how to vote. Therefore, I would be free to be an independent voice who will speak up on and behalf of all constituents in Milnrow and Newhey.
I want to make sure both Milnrow and Newhey retain their own character and remain a great place for the residents’, their children, and grandchildren to grow up in.
