A derelict garage site in Littleborough has become a 'serious problem', according to Rochdale's MP. The site, known as the former Lake Garage on Smithy Bridge Road, has been vacant for nearly a decade and is attracting vandals and criminal activity. Labour MP Paul Waugh has now called for urgent action to address the deteriorating situation.
History of the Site
The location has suffered from vandalism and fires in recent years, and Mr Waugh has been informed that the site is being used to grow cannabis. Multiple attempts to redevelop the crumbling garage into a new Spar store have been made over the past few years. However, Rochdale Council's planning committee rejected the plans in 2024 due to safety concerns, and the developer, James Hall & Co Ltd, lost an appeal despite modifications to improve safety.
MP's Letter to Spar
In a letter to Spar bosses, Mr Waugh stated: 'The above site in my constituency has now stood derelict for the best part of a decade, and it has become a serious and worsening problem for the people I represent. Your company has repeatedly sought planning permission to demolish the former garage and build a Spar convenience store on the site. Those applications were refused by Rochdale council on road safety grounds, and a subsequent appeal was dismissed.'
He continued: 'I respect the planning process and the independent judgements that have been reached. What I cannot accept is that, throughout this period, the site has been left to rot while the community around it pays the price. The consequences are now severe. The building has previously been damaged by fire and vandalism. Residents report that it was used as a cannabis grow. And this past weekend it was broken into by a group of youths, who forced their way through the boarding, with the police called to the scene.'
'Local people are understandably alarmed. A derelict, insecure building of this kind is a magnet for crime and antisocial behaviour, and it is surely only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt.'
Councillor's Concerns
Coun Tom Besford, who represents the Littleborough Lakeside ward, added: 'This rotting building has been a blight on Smithy Bridge for the best part of a decade. The developer has been refused permission again and again, lost an appeal, and still the site is left to decay – a magnet for crime and a danger to local people. Residents have had enough, and so have I. It is time the company stopped sitting on this eyesore and either brought forward something the community can support or released the site so it can be put to good use.'
Mr Waugh has called for the site to be properly secured, clarity on future intentions for the site, and consideration of selling the site if no further plans are forthcoming. Spar has been contacted for comment.
