Report - Greenacres Lodge, Oldham - December 2012

[Marsden1002]

Hi All,

Decided to visit this one alone. Very close to home and drove past this for the last year without deciding to take a look. Fast forward one year and i decide to have a quick look when walking past. The building has some limited features as it's been sold and pulled apart (or renovated) which is a shame. This building again sum's Oldham council up - total and absolute f*ck whits where building preservation and wasting money is concerned.​

History taken from Oldham News | News Headlines | Save our landmark, say campaigners - Chronicle Online

CAMPAIGNERS in Greenacres are planning to bombard Oldham Council bosses with letters asking them to preserve a popular landmark.

Greenacres Lodge is a detached 19th century stone-built villa set in its own grounds off Greenacres Road and was used as a residential home for people with learning difficulties until April, 2008.

The council is offering it for sale, either for conversion to a new use, or for demolition and redevelopment.

Waterhead councillor Linda Dawson wants the council to give preference to a buyer who conserve the existing lodge exterior in development plans.

She said: “We know the building has to be sold and the council has a duty to get best value when selling property but can weigh benefit to the community against pure price.â€￾

Four years ago a campaign was launched when the lodge was again put up for sale, including a bid for listed status.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, cabinet member for housing, said: “Oldham Council has decided to sell Greenacres Lodge as the building is surplus to requirements and there are no plans to reoccupy the building in the future.â€￾

Councillor Dawson, who is supporting the preservation campaign, added: “Oldham has lost so much of its heritage. I really hope people will get behind the campaign and write a letter to help secure the future of this lovely building.