Lib Dems Oppose Demolition of Victorian Buildings on Burton Road

4.41.12pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 24th Nov 2006

The Liberal Democrats are opposing the demolition of Oak Lodge on Burton Road. Oak Lodge is a hostel made up of 2 large Victorian semi-detached houses. The Council is proposing to completely demolish these historic buildings and replace them with modern houses for homeless accommodation.

Withington Councillor Audrey Jones, who is the Manchester Lib Dem Housing spokesperson, condemned the proposed demolition at a recent meeting of the City Council's Executive Committee (22nd November).

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Audrey Jones said:

"While we support the improvement of homeless accommodation in Manchester, we do not support the demolition of historic Victorian buildings such as Oak Lodge. Instead of knocking Oak Lodge down and building new homeless accommodation, the Council should instead refurbish the existing buildings."

John Leech, Liberal Democrat MP for Manchester Withington, is also opposed to the demolition. He said:

"The City Council has a policy of encouraging the retention of existing buildings. Why then are they proposing to demolish Victorian buildings in their ownership? Victorian and other historic buildings are an important part of our local environment and heritage. Every step should be taken to retain those that remain instead of replacing them with less attractive modern flats and houses."

ENDS