Oldham Council: Working for You | Summer 2023

Oldham

Working For You

So much to be proud of –and even more to come

New homes, new jobs and new places for all Oldhamers to enjoy – that was the pledge from Council Leader Arooj Shah, and her promise is well on the way to being delivered.

Since becoming Leader in May, Cllr Shah has announced that the council is teaming up with award-winning developer Muse, led by a born and bred Oldhamer, to build 2,000 homes and a new park in what will be the biggest piece in the jigsaw of our new town centre.

This comes as work is already well underway on other fantastic projects such as the new-look Spindles and Tommyfield Market; the new Oldham Coliseum theatre in the heart of our Cultural Quarter; the restored Old Library and the refurbished Egyptian Room, which will soon reopen as a food hall.

While building a new borough for the future, the council is also making huge

improvements in serving the most important people – those who call Oldham home.

That means taking a can-do approach to making everyday services better and bringing them closer to home; opening new Family Hubs to get our children off to the best start; and getting back to basics with the Don’t Trash Oldham campaign, making neighbourhoods cleaner and greener.

Councillor Shah said: “There’s never been a more exciting time for Oldham - with new homes, new jobs and better council services coming to the heart of our communities. These aren’t just ideas; this is happening now.

“The first of our new Family Hubs opened in July and more will soon follow. Council services have already started moving into our district buildings, meaning people can get the help they need closer to home. And Don’t

Trash Oldham is back and bigger than ever.

“There’s also so much happening for people to enjoy. Over the summer, we have a huge range of Holiday Activities and Food sessions, so children can have fun, and a good lunch, every day.

“The Oldham Half Marathon is back in October after four years away, backed by Freeman of the Borough Kevin Sinfield. And we’re making our great outdoors even greater; with new trees and woodland

A message from the Leader

Oldham is such an amazing and diverse borough – and as a proud Oldhamer, there is no greater honour than being elected to lead this Council.

That’s why I’m thrilled that we have so many fantastic things already happening, and many more to come, all of which will make our town an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

being planted; improvements across our parks; and new walking and cycling routes.

“What’s also brilliant to see is that Government has faith in our plans and is investing in us, with £20m in Levelling Up funding for new eco-friendly developments which will create new jobs and attract more people to live and work here.

“Oldham is a great borough and by working together we’re well on our way to making it even greater.”

Oldham Mayor to grant residents’ wishes

Councillor Zahid Chauhan

OBE is eager to make a big impact on residents’ lives during his Mayoral Year as he aims to make the wishes of locals come true.

That’s why the Mayor recently launched ‘Truly Wished’ to help celebrate and reward inspirational Oldhamers and to bring a little happiness to people who really need it.

“There are many people we know in our borough who have sadly gone through some

really hard times of late and who deserve the chance to experience something special in their life,” said Cllr Chauhan.

“So rather than selecting charities to support with donations over the next 12 months, the funds I raise as Mayor will instead be used to help grant people’s wishes.”

You can get involved in ‘Truly Wished’ by nominating someone you know in Oldham who merits having a wish granted.

Examples could include someone you know who is really struggling and needs a long overdue pick-me-up, or someone who cares for the needs of others before their own and deserves something a little special like a nice meal in a restaurant.

All wishes up to a maximum value of £500 will be considered by Oldham’s Mayoral Committee in partnership with Action Together and they, using the money raised by the Mayor,

Top of my to-do list are creating cleaner, greener neighbourhoods; bringing in new jobs and investment; and getting back to basics with the very best value-for-money Council services that give people what they want and need from us.

Since becoming Leader in May I’ve been out and about to every corner of our borough, talking to people from all our communities about what their hopes and ambitions are for our town, and hearing what they want to see from their Council.

This helps me make sure that every penny of taxpayer’s money is spent wisely, that we’re getting the basics right, and that, together, we’re building an even better Oldham for the future.

will decide on which wishes are granted.

For more information on ‘Truly Wished’ visit www.trulywished.org.uk

Cllr Arooj Shah, Oldham Council Leader.

Children from Beever Primary School with Council Leader Arooj Shah

Mayor of Oldham and Council Leader Arooj Shah

Let’s create the greenest borough in Greater Manchester

Oldham is going to get cleaner over the coming months and years

That’s the pledge of Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, who is making it her priority to improve the borough through the already successful Don’t Trash Oldham campaign

As well as making environmental That’s the pledge of Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, who is making it her priority to improve the borough through the already successful Don’t Trash Oldham campaign.

As well as making environmental improvements Councillor Shah, who launched Don’t Trash Oldham in 2021 after listening to you, said she is determined to make a difference to people’s lives.

She said: “I’m passionate about cleaning up the borough and creating

Council

a place where people want to live and say they are proud to come from.

“Over the last year I’ve spoken to a lot of people who have given me their views. Don’t Trash Oldham has been a real success and I’m proud of what we have achieved. But we can do more.

“That’s why one of my pledges as leader was to expand the work Don’t Trash Oldham does, prioritise improving our communities and make long term improvements. We want people to work with us and tell us what they want to see in their areas.

“It could be improving your alleyway to create a space where children can play out safely or making a small space so you can sit with your neighbours and have a brew. We want to hear your ideas and help deliver them.

“One thing I am clear on – we’ll also be continuing to take action against selfish people who bring the borough down by dumping their unwanted furniture and household rubbish.

“If you see someone dumping an old sofa or bin bags of rubbish report it

pledges to plant 1,000 more trees

The borough is going to get greener – literally!

This year the council is looking at creating 2.5 hectares of new woodland, from saplings, when planting season starts in October. We’ll also be planting a minimum of 1,000 trees at sites across the borough.

Since the council declared a climate emergency we have planted more than 2,000 standard trees in parks, cemeteries, highways verges and other open spaces.

We have also planted nearly 15 hectares of new woodland, around 37,500 saplings, and committed to increase Oldham’s overall tree cover from 11.9% (2017) to 15% within a generation.

The council is doing our bit to improve the green environment and so can you.

That’s where you can come in – we want landowners, schools, golf courses, farms and social landlords for example, to join us and plant trees. You could even do it in your own garden.

Extra trees will support and improve the environment and they also have added benefits like helping to stop flooding.

If you would like more information about how you could get involved email EnvironmentalServices@ oldham.gov.uk

to us. We’ll investigate and will take action if we find evidence.”

For more information on Don’t Trash Oldham – including how to report environmental crimes – visit www.oldham.gov.uk/ donttrasholdham

The council is now offering a free pest control service to residents who own their own homes, and those living in private rented accommodation.

We’re introducing the service after listening to residents – some who were struggling to pay for the cost of getting rid of vermin.

The free service covers all pests that are a risk to public health, such as rats, mice, cockroaches, bed bugs and fleas, inside properties.

As part of the move the council is also creating four new jobs.

Depending on the severity of the infestation, more than one treatment may be required. For every service request you will receive up to three visits.

For more information and to contact our pest control team visit www.oldham.gov.uk/pestcontrol

Council Leader, Cllr Arooj Shah and Cllr Chris Goodwin, Cabinet member for Neighbourhoods out with the environmental enforcement team

Nik Anderson, Senior Arboricultural and Countryside Officer

Our eco-friendly developments get huge £20 million funding boost

We’re growing a greener Oldham –where our ambitions for the town match our ambitions for the environment.

That’s why we’re pushing ahead with plans for multi-million pound green projects, funded by £20m in Levelling Up Fund money from central Government.

The money will go towards creating: The Green Shoots Centre; a new business centre to support small environment technology businesses, based at Rhodes Bank.

Northern Roots Learning Centre; an education facility at our landmark Northern Roots project, which is creating the UK’s largest urban farm and country park on land near Alexandra Park.

The Oldham Greenway, to link the Green Shoots Centre, new town centre park and Northern Roots together, so people can easily travel by bike or on foot to the new venues and across the town centre.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Our fantastic regeneration plans are well underway, and there’s more exciting developments in the pipeline - all of which mean creating more jobs, more homes, and more places for people to enjoy

“What’s great to see is that Government have got faith in our plans too, which is why they’re backing them with a massive £20m funding.

“These pioneering eco-friendly developments are all part of our

Our recycling among top in the country

We’re saying a big thank you to residents for helping to drive up our household recycling rate by almost 10 per cent – the fourth highest improvement in the country.

The borough’s recycling rate is now at 46.5 per cent after it climbed 9.8 per cent.

The national average for 2021/22 was 44 per cent, according to figures announced by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “This is great news and one of the main reasons for the improved performance is residents doing their bit and recycling better.

“Your efforts – and the great work of our bin crews – are helping with our aim to become the greenest borough in Greater Manchester, something which I’ve identified as a priority for the council.

“Similar to many councils, Oldham’s household recycling rates decreased during the pandemic due to more people being at home and changes to collections for safety reasons.

“But our rate has bounced back, and we are proud of it.

“We can get it even higher. Every day our crews find waste and recycling in the wrong bins so please make sure you put it in the right one.”

For information on recycling, including your bin collection day, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/waste

ambition to be Greater Manchester’s greenest borough, and to meet our target of being a carbon-neutral borough by 2030.

“This is great news not just for people living and working in Oldham now, who will benefit from better walking and cycle links, new jobs and new education opportunities, but – perhaps

more importantly – generations to come, who will grow up in a cleaner, greener, town at the forefront of green technologies.

To find out more about the green developments underway in Oldham, visit the Regeneration page of the Oldham Council website, where you can read about the different projects and watch a fly-through video.

Love Parks Week returns for 2023

A week-long event to celebrate Oldham’s fantastic parks returns from 28 July to 6 August 2023, encouraging people across the borough and beyond to visit some of the town’s most loved outdoor spaces.

Whether it’s a park day with little ones, a picnic with friends or a day out walking with a four-legged friend, Oldham’s parks have so much to offer.

Each year, the launch of Love Parks Week coincides with the start of the

summer school holidays, serving up an excellent opportunity to enjoy parks across the borough, any day of the week.

In addition to promoting our local parks and playgrounds, the council also highlights the work taken to keep parks clean and tidy, in a bid to encourage more residents to look after our outdoor spaces.

To view an interactive map of parks across the borough, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/parks

Bulky

Artist impression of the Green Shoots Centre

New pledge signed to protect children in care from discrimination

Children in care and care leavers from across Oldham enjoyed a day of celebrations at Madhlo Youth Zone – as a new pledge was signed to ensure council decision-making helps protect them from discrimination.

The pledge was agreed by the council earlier this year, following a motion put forward from Oldham Youth Council, and officially signed by Council Leader Arooj Shah and Oldham Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People Shaid Mushtaq at Madhlo.

It means that the council now officially recognises that care-experienced people are a group who are likely to face discrimination, and that future decisions, services and policies made and adopted by the local authority will consider the impact of changes

on people with care experience, alongside those who formally share a protected characteristic such as age, disability, race and sex.

Councillor Shah said: “I was delighted to attend this event to celebrate these amazing children and young people. Through the most difficult of circumstances, they are achieving incredible things in their lives, so it was fantastic to be able to say thank you for making Oldham proud.

“While I personally can never fully understand the challenges that they face, I will always do my very best to listen, to support and to put policies in place to ensure our decision-making as a council supports our most vulnerable young people.

Foster for Oldham Help to change a life like Noah’s

“That’s why it was an easy decision to support the protected characteristic motion that the Youth and Children in Care Council brought to us. I’m proud that we worked together with them on this and that we are continuing to proactively seek out and listen to the voices of care-experienced people in all we do.”

In their motion to Full Council, members of the Oldham Youth Council told councillors that care-experienced people face discrimination, stigma, and prejudice in their day to day lives. Designating care experience a protected characteristic therefore aims to ensure decision-makers have to consider the needs of care-experienced young people more seriously.

Our foster carers among highest paid in the country

Pay and allowances for foster carers in Oldham are now among the highest in England following a 10 per cent increase this year

The pay rise has come as part of a £14.7m investment into children’s services which is also funding an additional 50 children’s social workers. There is a strong link between poverty and child neglect and the rising costs

of food, rent and bills is forcing more people into financial hardship. The investment aims to go some way to increasing the number of foster carers in Oldham, with the number of children requiring foster care increasing. As demand for foster care increases, it’s hoped the improved pay and conditions will draw more people towards fostering as a career or second income.

Working together to keep children safe

Protecting children and young people is one of the council’s top priorities and our social workers are committed to preventing Oldham’s young people from experiencing harm.

If you’d like to speak to an independent charity about a safeguarding concern then Keeping our Girls Safe (KOGS) are here to help.

KOGS provides one to-one support to young and older victims and survivors of child sexual exploitation (CSE), through trained and experience therapists. Group support in a confidential and safe space is also being provided by KOGS. Individuals can talk about their experiences and can access other

support services, such as Early Help. KOGs is also providing advice and support to help victims and survivors to report non-recent CSE and abuse.

You might not think something you’ve seen or experienced yourself is abusive or would be called grooming.

If you’re unsure, then please reach out to start a conversation.

If you’d like to speak to KOGS get in touch via www.kogs.org.uk

Alternatively, you can speak to them over the phone on 07491 068364

Council Leader Arooj Shah and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People Shaid Mushtaq sign the declaration with 13-year-old Precious who brought the motion to Full Council

First of our new Family Hubs opens its doors to you

The first Family Hub in Oldham has opened at the Beever Centre in St Mary’s, supported by an all-new digital Family Hub to support families 24 hours a day.

Launching the Family Hub project, Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Surestart Centres were once a lifeline to many families in Oldham and so I’m both proud and hopeful to be launching the first of the Family Hubs buildings which will build on the legacy of Surestart and improve outcomes for Oldham’s families.”

Beever Centre will be one of six Family Hubs to open across the borough over the next two years. A new online site that brings all the information into one space will also be available.

The council has secured £3.6m investment to deliver the project, which will create one-stop shops for health, council and support services. Through both in-person and virtual settings, Family Hubs bring everything into one space – from maternity and health visiting to activities and parenting classes.

While children’s centres focus mainly on children in their early years, Family Hubs will provide services for all areas of the family journey, whether babies, children or teenagers. There will also be support for children and young people with additional needs (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities – SEND).

The new Beever Centre Family Hub on Moorby Street has undergone a major facelift, which sees its outdoor and indoor spaces refurbished into welcoming places for families to enjoy and access the services they need.

What was once a crowded office space has been transformed into a bright and airy family room, with activities for children of all ages and young people with SEND up to age 25.

The outdoor space has seen its weathered furniture replaced and its nature walk has been given a new lease of life.

A community kitchen, additional family room and a breastfeeding room are also in place, all set around an inviting reception space.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “I know Beever Centre very well and the transformation of the space is fantastic. It’s more than a lick of paint and you can see the thought that has gone into the use of the rooms, it’s outdoor space and how services can be provided more effectively and with residents in mind.”

In addition to core services, partner support will also be available at each of the hubs. This includes breastfeeding advice from Home-Start, support for fathers from Dad Matters, and support groups such as the Afghan Women’s Group.

Parent and Carer Panel needs your views

You can have a say in improving the services that Oldham’s parents and carers can access, from pregnancy through to their child’s second birthday. Join Oldham’s Parent and Carer Panel today.

We’re building a diverse group of parents and carers to tell us what they think to ensure we listen to all voices in the community. The panel will include other parents and carers like you.

Share your experiences of pregnancy, having a baby or accessing help and shape services in your local area to improve the quality of care and support that other new families receive.

You might be asked about your experience of meeting your midwife for the first time, how you rate breastfeeding support, or what you think about family activities. You will be asked about Family Hubs, and how you feel about the services you receive.

Parent and Carer Panel sessions also have activities for children and

volunteers to keep an eye on little ones.

Panel sessions are taking place in every district across Oldham, and you can attend one or all of them –whatever’s most convenient to you.

To find out all about parent panels, head to www.oldham.gov.uk/familyhubs

Thousands of families not claiming free food and vitamins

Families in Oldham are being prompted to check whether they are eligible for the free Healthy Start card which gives them access to free healthy food, milk and vitamins.

The prepaid card can be used in over 30,000 shops in the UK, and is topped up by £8.50 each week (£4.25 if your baby hasn’t been born yet). You can use the card to buy any of the following:

• Plain liquid cow’s milk

• Infant formula milk based on cow’s milk

• Fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

• Fresh, dried or tinned pulses, such as lentils, beans, peas and barley

• Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

• Vitamin drops for babies and young children –suitable from birth to four years old

You can apply via the Family Hubs website if you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant or have at least one child under four years old. You must also be on a low income.

Even if you are not eligible for the NHS Healthy Start Card, you can still purchase cheaper vitamins for you and your child at one of our Family Hubs or children’s centres. Vitamins for expectant and nursing mothers are just 80p while children’s vitamin drops are £1.60.

Speak to a midwife or health visitor about the Healthy Start prepaid card or apply online at https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/

The outside space is transformed into a safe play area

Children join Council Leader for grand opening of Hilton Square

Schoolchildren joined Oldham Play Action Group and Oldham Council Leader, Arooj Shah, to take part in a morning of eco-friendly themed activities to mark the opening of our town centre’s new Hilton Square. The event marked the completion of the council’s project to create a greener and more accessible town centre, just in time for summer.

The works have been underway since January 2022, with significant improvements made to make the town centre safer, easier to navigate and a more pleasant environment for pedestrians, wheelchair users, cyclists, and people with prams and buggies. The improvements have been made to Henshaw Street, Albion Street and the top of Curzon Street – which will now be known as Hilton Square. The space has been named after the Hilton Arcade, which was constructed in 1893 and was officially opened by Cllr Shah.

As part of the opening children from Beever Primary School were invited to plant some verbena in the new beds with the council’s environment team; learn more about the sustainability of the project; and take part in some crafts with Oldham Play Action Group.

Pupils were also taught about the importance of recycling water and brought a container of recycled water to water the newly installed trees, shrubs and plants – with the message that, if we all do small things, it can lead to a bigger impact to the environment.

Councillor Shah, said: “I was delighted to officially open Hilton Square, particularly meeting local children and learning more about how, together, we can all help the environment.

“The improvements to this key space right in the heart of our town centre will make it easier for people to walk or cycle, reducing the reliance on cars, as well as creating a pleasant space for people to meet and spend time.

“Although only a small part of our wider ambitions, these works will also contribute towards our goal of being the greenest borough in Greater Manchester, and becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2030. It’s great to see our town centre becoming a cleaner and greener space and being enjoyed by our young people.”

As part of the development, rainwater systems have been installed within the newly formed landscaped areas. This approach not only contributes to reducing flooding but also enhances the overall sustainability of the project. The next phase of the work has already started on West Street, where improvements will be made for pedestrians and cyclists to enter the town centre. As part of these works, more sustainable landscaping will be introduced - again, making Oldham a greener borough.

Isabella Bennet aged six, from Beever Primary School, was one of the children who took part in the activities yesterday

She said: “I really enjoyed putting my own plant in the space and using the recycled rainwater to water the plant.”

Matas Drozdovas, also six, added: “The space is nice. I really liked making my badge and sunflower headband.”

These works are part of the council’s transformation of the town centre, to build a place where more people want to live, work, and raise a family.

The plans include a completely revamped Spindles with a brand-new home for Tommyfield Market; a food court and new offices; a restored Old Library with a community space,

Council chamber and new home for Oldham Theatre Workshop; Northern Roots – the North’s biggest country park and urban farm – a new food hall in the Egyptian Room; a town centre park; a range of family homes and a brand new theatre to be the home for Oldham Coliseum.

The programme will also deliver 2,000 new homes designed for a range of different budgets and needs, 1,000 new jobs and 100 new apprenticeships. For more information about the regeneration works taking place across Oldham, see the website and watch our fly-through video.

Landmark park building reopens

One of the borough’s most recognisable buildings is back open to the public for the first time in twoand-a-half years.

The historic listed Alexandra Conservatory in the Grade II Alexandra Park has been undergoing an extensive £460,000 refurbishment and remained closed throughout.

Now work on the 116-year-old building has concluded, with significant repairs to the timber structure and weathervanes, renewal of areas of roof glazing which included curved glass panels at high level in the centre pavilion, replacement of rainwater goods, and a complete overhaul of the original messenger window opening mechanisms.

The building was originally built in 1907 at a cost of £1,500. It is now back open seven days a week for visitors to enjoy once again.

Over the years many of the plants and

flowers that brighten up our roads, streets, highways and parks have been grown in the conservatory.

Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Generations of Oldhamers have visited the conservatory over the years so it’s great that we’ve been able to open the doors once again.

“Alexandra Park is already our most popular green space, with people of all ages enjoying it thanks to the great facilities on offer. The conservatory is now yet another good reason to come along and visit.”

Constructed entirely from wood and glass the structure has always been vulnerable to the elements and it has been renovated several times over the last 100 years.

The Messenger Conservatory is now back open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 3.30pm and Friday to Sunday from 8am to 4pm.

Children from Beever Primary School help to plant beds in the town centre

The newly-refurbished Alexandra conservatory

Born and bred Oldhamer to oversee revamp of town centre

New homes, new jobs and new places to enjoy are a step closer to coming to Oldham, with the announcement of the council’s new development partner

Muse Places Limited – headed by born and bred Oldhamer Phil Mayall – have been selected as the development partner for our ambitious regeneration scheme, which will see up to 2,000 new homes created in the town centre.

The development, which is anticipated to bring millions of pounds of investment into Oldham, will bring together projects underway across the town centre such as the revamp of Spindles, the restoration of the Old Library and Egyptian Rooms, the creation of a new town centre park, the building of a new theatre and the relocation of Tommyfield Market into a new brighter space with a new food hall, opening out onto Parliament Square.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of

Oldham Council, said: “I know that after years of promises on our regeneration plans, what Oldhamers need is for us to deliver – and this partnership with Muse is the next step in us doing just that.

“As well as providing a range of new housing of all types and sizes right in the town centre, this development will also bring benefits for the wider borough in terms of investment, new jobs and training opportunities.

“The aim is to create 2,000 new homes on what are currently some of the council’s own sites – including the Civic Centre – to provide the muchneeded variety of new homes for our residents. By building on ‘brownfield’ sites, we protect green and open space from development.

“New communities making their homes in our town centre will boost local businesses; and life will be brought back into a town centre that, like many others, has struggled in recent years.

“I’m thrilled we are forging ahead

Working for Oldham Council

We have a wide range of jobs available across the council, from social work through to administration, waste collection, community engagement, and much more.

All of our jobs are advertised on the Greater Jobs website, where you can apply online.

As well as being part of a team who share the same values to make a positive difference for the borough, working for Oldham Council means you’ll also enjoy great staff benefits, including a range of discounts and e-vouchers for popular shops, supermarkets and eateries.

All staff receive at least 24 days’ holiday each year, plus Bank Holidays, and can choose the option to purchase additional days’ leave through our Annual Leave Purchase Scheme.

We’re committed to developing our staff, so you’ll also have access to a wide range of development opportunities, including leadership and management programmes, e-learning courses and training events.

Want to learn more?

Take a look at the Greater Jobs website to apply for our latest opportunities: www.greater.jobs

with these exciting, and truly gamechanging plans to create a town centre for future generations to live in, work in and enjoy – and I’m also so pleased that Muse, headed up by a passionate Oldhamer, are the company chosen to do this hugely

exciting work with us.”

Full details of the Council’s town centre development programme, including a fly-through video, are on the Regeneration section of the Oldham Council website.

First glimpse of proposed new Coliseum theatre

Detailed plans for our new theatre and home for the Coliseum went on display to the public - showcasing a modern and inclusive space that’s relevant and right for Oldham.

Designs show a venue that will be uniquely Oldham and embodies the rich and diverse history and heritage of the town, its people, its streets, and buildings.

Plans for the £24m theatre have been created and are being consulted on with the Oldham Coliseum, the Arts Council and other cultural organisations in Oldham.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “I’m really glad we could showcase more details on our proposals and get feedback. We asked what you wanted, and you told us you want a modern and accessible venue where packed audiences can enjoy a variety of performances.

“We are working hand-in-hand with the Oldham Coliseum, Arts Council and other cultural partners to shape these plans and, together, provide a theatre to be proud of and one that can support the Coliseum’s future as a thriving producing theatre company.”

A full planning application for the new theatre will be submitted soon. Residents will have the opportunity to comment on these detailed proposals as part of the planning process.

Phil Mayall with Council Leader Arooj Shah and Chief Executive Harry Catherall at the launch of the town centre regeneration scheme

Summer holiday events for all ages – a must for your diary…

The excitement of the summer holidays is here but we know just how hard it is to keep the kids busy. Luckily, we have done the hard work for you and shortlisted the best attractions and events around so that you can plan ahead:

Oldham Pride 21–23 July 2023, free

The fun starts on the evening of 21 July, with a pre-Pride party at The George Tavern including cabaret and games! On Saturday 22 July the Pride Parade starts at noon and will travel through the Town Centre to Queen Elizabeth Hall where there will be community stalls, a youth event and a main stage cabaret until 7pm. Oldham Pride will finish on Sunday 23 July with a family picnic in Alexandra Park (1pm–3pm) and a Pride Service at 6pm at Oldham Parish Church.

Find out more on the Oldham Pride Facebook page #WeBelong #OldhamPride

Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park – one of Oldham’s most-loved local treasures. Enjoyed by thousands of people each year, Alexandra Park is a Victorian town park and was completely refurbished in 2004. The park is home to some spectacular structures, fountains and a lake, as well as small areas of woodland to explore. From Alexandra Park there are marked paths leading into Snipe Clough, Brushes Clough and to Park Bridge Heritage centre and beyond.

Plus, don’t miss! Summer Beach Event

28 July – 3 September

Alexandra Park

This event is a wonderful celebration of Seaside fun at Alexandra Park Oldham and is open from 11am to 7pm daily.

Visit our website for further information

Gallery Oldham

Gallery Oldham is a free museum and art gallery in the heart of the Cultural Quarter of central Oldham.

Four exhibition spaces are situated on the second floor, and you can also find more collections displayed throughout the building – in the foyer, on landings and throughout Oldham Library. Why not follow our trail through the building to see more of our more permanent displays? Start in the foyer with the fabulous vintage Rothwell car – made in Oldham in 1910. Our stairwells also include displays of taxidermy and some fascinating natural history models. There are also lots of activities over the holidays to keep the kids occupied. www.galleryoldham.org.uk

GO Play!

until 9 September

In its first exhibition designed especially for its youngest visitors, this selection of artworks from the Gallery Oldham collections has been chosen by its youngest ever curators. View some of the wonderful artworks they have made, with lots of opportunities for little ones to get creative and playfully explore art. There will be something for all the family to discover, investigate and enjoy!

GO Play! Summer Session

Tuesdays from 25 July – 29 August, 10.30am –12noon

Crafts, storytelling and music making are among the range of activities taking place every Tuesday over the summer holidays. Lots of fun activities for families to join in, which will be perfect for under 5’s and their families. Each session will be led by a practitioner and include lots of fun and laughter. Sessions are free, but booking is essential via Eventbrite via www.galleryoldham.org.uk

Collab Lab

Tuesdays throughout August 1 – 4.30pm

Join a different artist each week in these creative sessions for 11 – 16 year olds over summer. Every Tuesday in August work with a different practitioner to explore new skills, work with others and create artworks to take home.

Sessions are free but booking is essential via Eventbrite.

For full listings of all events over the summer holidays visit www.galleryoldham.org.uk

Summit Up

Summit Up has something for climbers of all abilities, including one of the largest Clip ‘n Climb centres in the UK, bouldering, and roped climbing.

Perfect fun for experienced climbers and novices alike, this is a space where everyone can feel safe to push their limits, try something new, bring the family and most importantly, have fun.

The Clip ’n Climb features 35 exciting challenges, including the Leap of Faith, the signature Stairway to Heaven and a thrilling 10m vertical drop slide. There is also two ValoClimb walls that use the ‘world’s first’ interactive gaming technology, combining great physical exercise and gaming experience… or if that sounds too high-octane, there’s also a café as well as a soft play for younger children.

Book direct online on the Summit Up website or call 0161 820 8750. www.summitupclimbing.com

Arriving in your local library and online this summer…

The Summer Reading Challenge is taking place at all libraries in Oldham and Gallery Oldham from Until Saturday 16 September

Read 6 books of your choice and get involved in fun activities

The Holiday Activities and Food Programme returns from Tuesday 25 July – Friday 1 September

Free activities and meals for kids during the school holidays are on offer as the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme returns for the summer.

The summer holidays can often be an exciting time for our children and young people, as they take a long six-week break from the classroom, this period can still be a very challenging time for some parents. Add in the challenges of expensive activities or replacing school meals, and for most low-income families, options to keep little ones busy reduce massively.

Those who participate experience a range of great benefits, including being able to socialise with people their own age, learn and play new games, and – most importantly –have lots of fun.

Oldham Council works with more than 40 local providers to offer a variety of activities across the borough, with free places available for children aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for free school meals.

For more information, and to book activities, visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge

But there is a solution and it comes in the form of Oldham’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme. Our HAF programme has been running since Easter 2021, supporting our children and young people to have a great time over the holidays – summer, winter and Easter.

Children can book onto up to 16 free sessions throughout the summer, and unique HAF codes will be sent in the post to each eligible child to use when booking. These activities include everything from sports camps, cooking, craft sessions, theatre shows, trips, coding and so much more! Every activity provides a healthy meal and an element of physical activity.

Those who are not eligible for free school meals can still participate and these places usually come at a small cost. Please contact providers directly before booking.

www.oldham.gov uk/HAF

taking place at all libraries across Oldham and Gallery Oldham

Kevin Sinfield encourages Halloween Half sign up

Rugby legend turned ultra-marathonrunner, Kevin Sinfield OBE is celebrating the return of one of the toughest half marathon courses in the UK

The Oldham Halloween Half will take place on 29 October and more than 150 runners have already signed up to take part – demonstrating the town’s appetite for the comeback.

As his hometown prepares to welcome the event back after three years, Kevin said: “It’s fantastic to have Oldham’s half marathon back on the map.”

Kevin, who was named Freeman of the Borough in May, added: “This is such a special event to have in Oldham.

“From what I’ve seen and experienced over the last couple of years is that people like doing challenges together, people like getting out there and exercising and spending time together. It’s great Oldham has that again with the half marathon.

“I’ve obviously ran through sections of the town in the past for some of my previous fundraisers, but I’ve never actually been able to do the half marathon yet so at my first opportunity, I’ll be running it for sure.”

Due to coaching commitments, Kevin unfortunately misses out on this year’s race as England competes at

the Rugby World Cup, but the ultramarathon runner did have some tips for those taking part.

“There are a lot of marathons and half marathons out there that say they are flat and fast,” Kevin added.

“Oldham certainly won’t be flat and fast but for somebody getting into training for those types of races, I think this course offers great preparation.

“Plus, with the weather conditions, some beautiful scenery and the humour of the people here, this will all definitely help you to get around the course, so you will really enjoy it.”

Councillor Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said: “The Oldham Halloween Half is going to be a wonderful day for the town and it’s great to have it back after a few years away.

“The course is not an easy feat for even the most experienced of runners but it’s all part of the fun and it’ll be lovely to see people from all areas out there with their running shoes on, enjoying the borough’s amazing landscape and just having a great time, so sign-up and give it a go if you haven’t already.”

The Oldham Halloween Half is open to anyone aged 17 and over, and you can sign up at www.oclactive.co.uk

Oldham-born rugby and ultra-marathon star, Kevin Sinfield

SAVE THE DATE

OLDHAM HALLOWEEN HALF OCT 2023 GET YOUR PULSE RACING

Get your walking boots on this summer

With its rugged Pennine landscape, rolling moors and easy-going canalside trails, you need look no further than your own town for a fantastic summer walk or day out over the school holidays.

Whether you’re a veteran hiker or a novice, the Oldham Way offers something for everyone. Those in search of a real challenge can take on the full 42-mile Oldham Way – a waymarked trail around the borough taking in sights including Dove Stone Reservoir, Castleshaw and Saddleworth moors, and Hartshead Pike.

More experienced walkers with a true sense of adventure can comfortably navigate all of its highs and lows in a couple of days, while families and those new to its tracks might want to explore one of the seven recommended routes.

Join Full details of all Oldham Way routes can be found on the Oldham Council website. www.oldham.gov.uk/ oldhamwaywalks

St Mary’s Way-hey! Local News...

Oldham Council has secured £900,000 of funding to start planning work aimed at improving one of the major gateways into the town centre

The money will be used to draw up detailed plans for the future of St Mary’s Way, which is currently an imposing dual carriageway cutting through the edge of the town centre with poor pedestrian and cycle links.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Our officers have done a great job in securing this funding for the borough.

“We are delivering a better and more welcoming town centre, and for that to happen St Mary’s Way has to change because at the minute it cuts off a lot of connectivity for our local residents and people visiting the town centre.

“Our proposed scheme will deliver real benefits for residents and visitors as it will make getting about easier than it is now.

“Over the last few years we’ve transformed streets and public areas across Oldham Town Centre, making it easier and safer to travel around, especially for cyclists and pedestrians. This will be the next phase of that work.”

The road will also become more pedestrian and cycling friendly and allow easier access for public transport users, whilst maintaining the route for vehicles travelling to or around the town centre.

Through the proposed scheme, traffic and buses will use the northern half of the current dual carriageway to travel in both directions with the southern half repurposed to include high quality urban realm, dedicated space for walking and cycling and planting to make the area more attractive while assisting with drainage.

A two-way cycle track with priority over side roads, crossing points, widening of pedestrian paths and improved bus stop facilities will be installed.

Exciting news for cricket enthusiasts, how zat?

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has recently provided £11,128 of funding to Oldham Council to install a non-turf cricket square at Oldham Edge playing fields.

The initiative aims to promote informal and recreational-based cricket opportunities for both residents and visitors.

The funding from the ECB comes as part of their ongoing commitment to expanding and diversifying cricket participation across the country. By investing in non-turf pitches, they are creating more accessible spaces for people to enjoy the sport, regardless of their skill level or experience.

Oldham Edge offers an amazing, picturesque spot which is easily accessible from the town centre and hopes to attract both residents and visitors who love the sport.

The new facility at Oldham Edge will be a hub for cricket fans, offering a place to come together and enjoy a match with friends.

So, whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, keep an eye out for the non-turf cricket pitch at

in the future in other areas of the borough.

The pitch has been installed but is not fully yet active due to the time needed for the grass to repair. Keep an eye on the council’s social media channels for updates to the area.

The proposed improvements are part of the wider vision to make the town centre easier to get around –Accessible Oldham – and ongoing regeneration schemes that will deliver more much needed homes and significant improvements, such as the town centre park.

The overall improvement scheme will cost £6m with money to pay for it coming from the CRSTS programme, a national £5.7 billion investment in local transport networks.

It is anticipated construction will begin in 2025.

We’ll keep you posted with progress.

Mayor opens new Christian Church

Cllr Zahid Chauhan, the newly appointed Mayor of Oldham, has opened a new Christian church as part of his commitment to uniting the town’s communities.

The Victory Christian International Ministries church has relocated from Union Street in the town centre to its permanent home on Ashton Road in Hathershaw.

In his address to the congregation after the Sunday sermon, Cllr Chauhan expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to be present at the opening ceremony.

He highlighted the significance of the occasion by stating: “Everything I heard today is a testimony that we live in a country named Great Britain. Do you know why it’s called Great Britain? Because it has great people... who co-exist together. People from different backgrounds, people from different faiths, from different religions – they all come together.”

is that the new Christian church can worship in the same way Muslims are in the mosque just steps away. On summing up how he felt about being asked to open the church, Cllr Chauhan said: “It’s an honor and a privilege…opening a place of worship, in a town you love and in a ward you represent – you don’t get many opportunities like this.”

The church has been raising funds for the sensory room through church donations and will be extending its fundraising efforts once it gains charitable status in the near future.

The new non-turf cricket square will be installed on Oldham Edge playing fields

Mayor Chauhan is a Muslim and was made honorary warden of the Oldham’s Parish Church on Sunday, 28 May. In the spirit of uniting communities, he remarked to worshippers how great it

Central District : Alexandra, Coldhurst and St Mary’s

Oldham Edge. The team are working with the ECB to install more non-turf pitches

Local News...

School Streets scheme rolled out in Royton

A new traffic scheme aiming to make school drop off and pick up much safer is underway in Royton.

Dame Sarah Storey OBE - Active

Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester – has backed Oldham’s first School Street. Recently visiting St Anne’s Primary School, Royton to see how the pilot scheme is making the roads around the school safer and healthier for pupils.

The School Streets scheme launched at St Anne’s Primary School on Broadway in Royton after concerns were raised by parents and residents due to unsafe parking and too many road users.

The scheme works by closing certain roads to vehicles around the schools at pickup and drop-off times, during term time only.

In the case of St Anne’s, the deadend Ormerod Avenue is closed from

8.15am to 9am, and 2.45pm to 3.35pm on school days only. Permit holders, emergency vehicles and blue badge holders are exempt. This allows children and their parents to walk, cycle or wheel to and from school safely, which helps to reduce air pollution, congestion on the roads, and reduce parking issues. Oldham Council will be rolling out School Streets over the coming months to several schools across the borough.

Transport for Greater Manchester and the Department for Transport are funding the initiative – which will also cover the addition of future schools.

If you would like to find out more about School Streets, email active.travel@oldham.gov.uk

Knitted postbox toppers brightening up Shaw

There has been a rise in the number of knitted or crocheted hats that sit on top of postboxes being created by residents.

Popping up all over Shaw, the woollen works are often inspired by a theme, season or event, and are bringing joy to residents – especially little ones.

One Shaw resident said: ‘It’s absolutely lovely spotting them and my children love the new design that has been made, especially the caterpillar’ Craft-lovers have been taking to Facebook to share snaps of their favourites toppers as they spot them out and about, with families changing their walking routes to take a look at the new designs.

If you do spot anymore and would like to share the design, tag the ‘I love Oldham’ Facebook page so it can be shared or email communications@ oldham.gov.uk

New Shaw youth club launches

A new group aimed at bringing young people together has opened in Shaw.

The Shaw Youth Club is encouraging youngsters aged 11 to 18 to head over to 1 Newton Street on a Tuesday, 6.30–8.30pm.

It’s free to attend, holds fun activities and is a chance for you to meet other young people in the area.

Parents and grandparents are being urged to encourage young family members to attend as it can help develop their social skills and gives them opportunities to try new sports and activities. Anyone from Oldham can go to the youth club so you don’t need to necessarily live in Shaw.

North District: Crompton, Royton North, Royton South and Shaw

L-r, Cllr Chris Goodwin with Dame Sarah Storey, Leader of the Council Cllr Arooj Shah and Headteacher Sue Holt at St Annes School in Royton

Local News...

West District: Chadderton Central, Chadderton South, Chadderton North and Werneth

New state-of-the-art facilities open at North Chadderton School

Children and young people in Chadderton and surrounding areas are benefitting from fantastic new facilities

Education officials, Council officers and councillors gathered to celebrate the opening of the new space which includes the new Trevor Brown Library. The opening ribbon was cut by Trevor Brown himself who retired after working for the school for over 43 years as the much-loved school Librarian.

The new facilities comprise of a bistro, library, sports pavilion and a stateof-the-art science block with six fully serviced specialist science laboratories. All have been designed to ensure a quality learning environment that meets the requirements of the next generation of students.

Cllr Mohon Ali, Oldham Council Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “I’m thrilled to see this fantastic state of the art facilities finally opened and ready to be used by North Chadderton students.

“Children and young people in Oldham

Inspiring mum rewarded in King’s Birthday Honours

A Chadderton mum who founded a charity to help widows has been recognised in the King’s first Birthday Honours list.

Oyovwe Sagbodje Kigho, 48, has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her commitment to helping bereaved through the Widows Empowerment Trust.

After first starting a community support group, Oyovwe saw multiple friends lose their husbands. When one of her friends became a young widow in 2016, Oyovwe said she needed to take a “bold step”, and set up the charity to help others in similar situations.

The trust today runs support groups, activity sessions, a telephone befriending service, and days out.

While appreciating the award, Oyovwe said the real benefit is that the publicity helps her to raise awareness of the charity. She said: “I want people to know where to go.”

To get help, become a volunteer or find out more, head to the website at www.widowsempowerment.com

deserve the very best start in life and by investing in our schools we can help make that happen. I know that the impact of these new facilities on the outcomes for the North Chadderton Community will be felt for many years to come.”

Following a tour of the new buildings, several students commented on the new additions. Inayah, who is in year seven, said: “I am really happy and thankful that we have all these different areas that have been built for our school. I think that having more science classrooms is a good idea because it gives people who don’t really like science more confidence in the subject and shows them how much fun the subject can really be.”

Eva, a year 12 student who studied GCSE PE last year, says there was a lack of space for both teachers and students in the old facilities. She said: “The new building has improved things not only for us as students but also for the wider community. We all really appreciate this and want to thank you for everything.”

The works have been fully funded by Oldham Council, that has worked successfully in close partnership with the school and the construction partner Kier.

More services set to be brought into the heart of the Chadderton community

More council and partner services are set to be moved into Chadderton later this year, as part of Oldham Council’s “Residents First” pledge.

The first of the council’s five districts to benefit from customer service improvements within our neighbourhoods was South districtincorporating Failsworth, Hollinwood and Medlock Vale – and next in line will be Chadderton, with new services for residents to be moved into Chadderton Wellbeing Centre in Burnley Street.

The aim is that people living in the West district – made up of the three Chadderton wards and Werneth – will be able to get appointments closer to home rather than having to travel into Oldham town centre or further afield.

Councillor Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Communities at Oldham Council, said: “I’m really pleased to see more Council services moving into the heart of our neighbourhoods; making it easier for people to access the services they need, both from the council and from

other organisations such as Citizens Advice and TOG Mind.

“We’ve been receiving really positive feedback from residents following improvements to the services offered at Failsworth Town Hall, so I hope the improvements in Chadderton will be just as well-received.

“We also hope that by making help and support more accessible, and bringing different organisations together under one roof, any problems people are having can be identified and tackled sooner.”

As part of the improvements at Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, the building will be revamped to make it more accessible and welcoming, with new signage and cosmetic improvements.

Being based together in neighbourhoods, staff from different organisations can better share information, work with communities and better ensure people get support at an earlier stage, when they need it.

Organisations working with the council on these service improvements include Citizens Advice and TOG Mind.

Jamie McGlynn from Citizens Advice Oldham, said: “These changes mean we are able to be within the community and build relationships with partners that better the clients’ experiences and journeys.

“Clients can be in an area where they have a connection and reduce the need for them to travel, and most importantly, we are visible and access to advice is streamlined and accessible.”

Similar improvements will follow in the council’s other district areas over the coming months.

Local News...

Hollinwood Junction project creates 760 new jobs

A place for young people and families to thrive and grow and improve prospects and opportunities for people is emerging from the site of an old gasworks – and planning for a new phase has been submitted. Hollinwood Junction, being delivered in partnership by the council and Langree, is expected to create 760

jobs and will incorporate retail, leisure, employment space and up to 150 family homes.

The site is adjacent to Junction 22 of the M60 Motorway, southwest of Oldham town centre. Langtree submitted a planning application in June and sought permission for 13 units providing 192,000 square feet of light industrial, storage, distribution and

Failsworth Sports Centre gets complete makeover

The sports centre in Failsworth has been upgraded as part of a £500k investment into four leisure centres in Oldham.

Oldham Community Leisure, the charitable trust that manages leisure centres across the borough, has carried out a substantial upgrade to the gym floor, with a total replacement of its fitness suite and new equipment installed.

A brand new spin studio has also been introduced with 20 bikes for indoor classes.

Whether you like pounding the treadmill, hitting the rowing machine or prefer lifting weights, the gym has been upgraded with an impressive suite of cadiovascular equipment and an extensive list of resistance and weight stations.

There has also been a refresh of the décor to make the centre more inviting and encourage more people to get active.

Stuart Lockwood, Oldham Active chief executive, says: “As a

charitable organisation our aim is to motivate people to lead active, healthy lives; to help achieve this we need inspiring and welcoming facilities, with excellent equipment.

“The Oldham population has some significant challenges regarding inactivity levels and working in partnership with the council, we recognise the need to prioritise investment in our facilities to encourage participation and promote better wellbeing for all.

“Following the successful refurbishment at Saddleworth Pool and Leisure Centre in 2019 and the positive impact this has had on our customers, it’s fantastic to be able to invest in our other centres and improve our overall offer further.

“We want to ensure all our venues have high-quality equipment that’s easy to use and create safe spaces where our customers enjoy spending time. This substantial investment demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement.”

manufacturing space, with associated parking and service yards.

Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Hollinwood Junction is a really exciting project and once it’s all finished it will be a great place for young people and families to thrive, and improve opportunities for Oldhamers.

“I’m delighted that the planning for the next phase is being submitted to keep the project moving.

“This is another significant milestone in making our borough an even better place to live, work and raise a family – and it is brilliant that Hollinwood Junction is transforming the old gasworks into a space where Oldhamers can be proud to live and work.”

Broadbent Luncheon Club tackles loneliness

A lunch club in Failsworth is inviting members of the community to join with its twiceweekly sessions.

Broadbent Luncheon Club takes place each Monday and Wednesday, with activity sessions starting at 10am followed by an optional lunch until 1pm.

Luncheon clubs are a lifeline for people who experience loneliness, as it brings opportunities to socialise with people from the community, share stories and enjoy a range of activities.

Painting, crocheting, knitting, card making and wax painting are just some of the activities on offer. They also offer more niche activities such as pyrography – artistic technique using hot poker-style pens to etch onto wood.

From the Coronation to 100th birthdays, the club takes every opportunity to celebrate with its patrons, as well as offering its fun and friendly weekly activities and an affordable multichoice menu.

To join in, head to the Broadbent Luncheon Club on Lord Lane on a Monday or Wednesday between 10am and 1pm.

South District: Failsworth East, Failsworth West, Hollinwood and Medlock Vale

Local News...

East District: Saddleworth North, Saddleworth South, Saddleworth West and Lees, St James’ and Waterhead

Saddleworth weekender returns with a bang

Events in Saddleworth have returned for another successful year, with two fantastic days creating a jam-packed weekend for Families in Oldham.

Glorious sunshine set the tone for both Wellifest and the Saddleworth Show, with people travelling from all over the north west to enjoy the food, activities and music.

The Saturday was teeming with great performances with Manchester Ska Foundation getting the crowd going. Cover band Foo Fighterz also proved to be crowd pleasers, taking the stage on the same weekend that the real Foo Fighters appeared on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury.

Food stalls were set up to keep everyone going, while the craft fair had all sorts of colourful handmade cards, gifts and homewares. Activities across the event entertained families with kids of all ages.

The fun continued on Sunday with the return of the Saddleworth Show, bringing light-hearted entertainment and interactive activities for revellers across the board.

The traditional dog show drew the crowds with Dog Area impressing audiences with tricks and demonstrations.

Council leader, Councillor Arooj Shah, attended the event with Mayor Cllr. Zahid Chauhan, enjoying the sunshine and speaking to some of the community groups who had stands at the event.

Cllr Shah said: “What a fantastic day. It’s been great to see everyone enjoying the show in the sunshine. It seems to get better every year and there’s really something for everyone. Foodie, music lover, dog lovers and families – everyone seems to be having a great time.”

A crowd favourite, the duck race had some great prizes and everyone got into the spirit of the friendly competition. The event also showcased a youth music event, country corner, pony rides and a fairground

Laser training with light sabres, a giant maze, a photobooth and facepainting were also well received, while a second arena showcasing dance, a martial arts display and soothing yoga sessions

Waterhead fruit trail gets

£30k transformation

A refreshed fruit trail and veg plot, plus a community clean up is taking place in Waterhead as part of a £30,000 investment from the Local Improvement Fund (LIF).

The investment will support the development of the Waterhead Fruit Trail – an exciting project with a total budget of £40,000. The balance will be met through additional funding from Councillors’ budgets and the Big Local Lottery.

The aim of the project is to create a high-quality garden space that will serve as an entry point to the Bee route, contributing to the regeneration of the area at the junction of Clarksfield Road and Lees Road.

As part of the initiative, the existing Fruit Route will be transformed into a vibrant community orchard, offering a green oasis for residents to enjoy.

Furthermore, the project will focus on the creation of an easily accessible play area designed for families, providing a safe and engaging space for children to have fun and explore.

Cllr Peter Dean, Oldham’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said: “I am pleased to have supported this application for a LIF grant and I know that the community group will make good use of the equipment. The group wants to move onto clearing up some of the back alleys and this grant will make this possible.”

Veg in the Park, based in Waterhead Park, will receive £3,500 to renew the poly tunnel which has suffered damage over the years.

Cllr Dean added: “Veg in the Park is very successful which pioneered community vegetable growing and this grant will enable them to continue their good work.”

added to the range of activities available.

Rotary Saddleworth and Rotary Oldham were responsible for putting on the

events, supported by volunteers at Dovestones Women’s Institute and Saddleworth Air Cadets.

Big investment to improve outdoor spaces in Sholver

A grant of £30,000 to enhance pathways at Sholver Millennium Green, Pearly Bank, and Westminster Gardens has been granted by the Council.

With investment from the Local Improvement Fund (LIF), the funding will support restoration work to the 22-acre Sholver Millennium Green, located at the heart of the community. ‘The Green’ has been facing accessibility challenges due to the degraded state of its paths for some time.

The Sholver Millennium Green Trust, in partnership with Life for a Life Memorial Forests, will work together to maintain and care for the Green. The path restorations will not only enable more residents to utilise the Green but also improve accessibility for disabled individuals.

The Trust is also planning activities like the ‘Micro Greens’ project to engage children and young people in utilizing the Green instead of playing on roads.

Jon Platt, Chair of the Trust, expressed his excitement at the successful bid and emphasised the positive impact the funds would have on making the Millennium Green a more accessible and safe space for the community.

In addition to the Millennium Green, LIF grants have been awarded for a clean-up of Pearly Bank and the improvement of a path at Westminster Gardens. Plans to enhance Pearly Bank by clearing litter and fly-tipping are also taking place, making it more visible and discouraging future dumping. The area will also be flattened, and logs will be placed as seats sourced from on-site tree thinning. At Westminster Gardens, the grant will be used to fill in potholes and improve safety and usability.

The Local Improvement Fund aims to invest in projects that improving community spaces to ensure residents have safe, accessible and useful areas to enjoy.

Help in a crisis

Oldham Foodbank

If you’re not sure how you’re going to feed yourself or your family, Oldham Foodbank can help. To be referred, contact our Helpline:

T: 0161 770 7007

www.oldham.foodbank.org.uk

Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

Local Welfare Provision

If you need help to meet short term emergency needs, such as money for food, energy bills or housing costs, We Can Help by reviewing whether you’re eligible for the Local Welfare Provision.

T: 0161 770 5468

Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

Oldham Credit Union Simple, affordable, flexible loans of £100 – £10,000 from your community lender.

T: 0161 678 7245 www.oldhamcreditunion.co.uk

Risk of homelessness

If you’re at risk of losing your home, our Housing Options team can provide specialist advice and support in response to your circumstances. Contact them on:

T: 0161 770 4605 housing.options@oldham.gov.uk

Useful contacts

You can access lots of our services online at www.oldham.gov.uk

Contact Centre

Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm

T: 0161 770 3000

Out of hours emergency:

T: 0161 770 2222

Contact details for some of the key services available through our Contact Centre are the following:

Council Tax

E: council.tax@oldham.gov.uk

T: 0161 770 6622

Environmental Health

E: ENVhealth@oldham.gov.uk

T: 0161 770 2244

Housing Benefits

E: benefits@oldham.gov.uk

T: 0161 770 6633

Mental health crisis support

If you feel desperate and like you have nowhere to turn, help is available.

• call Samaritans on 116 123

• text SHOUT to 85258

If your thoughts are suicidal or if you feel you may hurt yourself or others, call 999 for an ambulance or go straight to A&E.

Are you part of a group supporting Oldham residents during the Cost of Living Crisis?

Grants between £200 and £1,000 are available for informal groups and members of Action Together in Oldham’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sectors (VCFSE).

Find out more at: www.actiontogether.org.uk/ one-oldham-fund

Struggling with the rising Cost of Living?

Are you worried about the rising cost of energy bills, food, and transport? You are not alone; the high cost of living is affecting many of us.

We know it’s a difficult time for many so please be aware support is available for you. We can help with issues like debt, finding a job, heating your home, feeding your family and more.

You can ring us on the Oldham Helpline: 0161 770 7007

Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm A text service is also available on 07860 022876

Contact our helpline on 0161 770 7007

Residents find MyAccount a time saver

Residents find MyAccount a time saver. The number of people using MyAccount has increased as the online tool helps them to access Council information quicker and easier.

MyAccount is the Council portal that links to residents’ addresses and stores all essential information neatly in one place.

Residents can find details of their local councillor, what colour bin is being collected or how much their next council tax payment is. This is reducing the amount of time people spend calling in.

Payment line T: 0161 770 6611 (24 hour automated payment service

Registrars

T: 0161 770 8960

Waste and recycling

E: waste@oldham.gov.uk

T: 0161 770 6644

We can help helpline

T: 0161 770 7007

For all the latest Oldham Council news sign up to our e-newsletter at www.oldham.gov.uk/email

Or follow us on social media

Facebook: @loveoldham Twitter: @OldhamCouncil Instagram: @oldhamcouncil

TikTok: oldhamcouncil

Published by Oldham Council

If you wish to contact us please email: communications@oldham.gov.uk

www.oldham.gov.uk

The personalised account also makes it much quicker for filling out forms, such as reporting fly tipping or missed bins. MyAccount is also helpful in providing updates and storing reference numbers for any forms filled in. Any household applying for council tax rebates or housing benefit can find their letters stores on the portal, putting information essential to their claim in one place.

To sign up for MyAccount, head to the homepage of the Council website and click on icon at the top right-hand corner.

If you need help getting online, our libraries have computers available on site, offer free chrome book (laptop) lending and can offer digital support to help you with registering for MyAccount.

More residents going digital thanks to Council’s support

The number of people being able to get online is increasing in Oldham thanks to digital support being provided by the council. The support recognised the challenges some people have getting online such as not yet having the digital skills to access websites, not having the equipment to be able to get online and not being able to afford data.

Please recycle this newspaper when you have finished with it.

All information accurate at the time of going to print.

Digital skills support is provided by officers within library buildings, to help residents use the computers and develop the skills they need to access websites and carry out transactions online.

Chromebook laptops are now on offer for lending in the same way that residents can borrow regular books. Libraries are now offering a databank, which provides free data to people who can’t afford to pay for data packages elsewhere.

Find out more about the council’s digital support at www.oldham.gov.uk/digitaloffer