It doesn't surprise me that average life expectancy in leafy
Uppermill, Greenfield, Diggle and Dobcross, is ten years longer at 85 years,
compared with 75 years, in the Oldham areas of Chadderton, Royton, and Shaw,
which have the lowest life expectancy of anywhere in Greater Manchester and
among the lowest in the country.
Some local residents attribute the longer life expectancy in
Uppermill and the other surrounding villages, to better air quality, regular
exercise, good schools, and a community way of life. Others point to the
affluence of areas like Uppermill which is teeming with bars, restaurants, and
boutique shops, and where the average house price is £305, 916 and a detached
house can set you back £579,167. The cost of housing means that many local
people who were born in the area, can no longer afford to live there today.
The local rail connection into Manchester or Huddersfield,
means that the area is very popular with commuters working in Granada land and
those working in well paid jobs in local government or the NHS. Fifty years
ago, Uppermill and the surrounding villages that make up Saddleworth, were part
of the West Riding of Yorkshire. They became part of Oldham and Greater
Manchester following the reorganisation of local government in 1974.
To this day, Saddleworth traditionally celebrates 'Yorkshire
Day' on the nearest Sunday to August and many local people still regard
themselves as being a part of Yorkshire.
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