Eruv plans back on the table for 12-mile route

The new planning proposal is for an area of Hale

Plans to erect a series of 18ft poles to create a special area for orthodox Jews are back under proposal after eight years.

The plans for an eruv around Hale, Greater Manchester, were first put forward a decade ago.

An eruv is a symbolic boundary exempt from a Jewish rule that forbids the carrying or pushing of items outside Jewish homes on the Sabbath.

But there was an outcry from local residents over plans for 117 poles in a five-square-mile area.

It was dropped, but revived in 2016 with 95 poles along a 12-mile route put forward. That too was dropped after an objection.

A map of the proposed eruv in Hale and Hale Barns

The new planning application is for 26 galvanised steel posts connected by nylon wire.

A planning statement from Prestwich-based Debtal Architecture said: “An eruv brings numerous benefits for the Jewish residents, particularly the elderly, disabled and families with young children.

“It would enable them to fully participate in Shabbat observance and lead meaningful lives.”

It said it would allow the free use of wheelchairs, mobility equipment and pushchairs without restriction as well allowing orthodox Jews to carry medication and prayer books freely on the Sabbath.

Two poles would fall within the Hale Station Conservation Area and eight within the South Hale Conservation Area.

The statement added: “The poles, posts and arches will be inconspicuous and placed at strategic locations to ensure there are no obstructions to pedestrians or vehicular traffic in the same way as other street furniture is located.

“The eruv would not at all alter the character of the area" and "would not even be perceivable to anyone" who was not aware of its "significance".