New taskforce to revitalise Oldham's night-time economy

A new taskforce is being created to help Oldham town centre businesses kickstart a dynamic new evening and night-time economy.

Businesses across the hospitality, entertainment, and cultural sectors, alongside key public services, will come together to kickstart efforts to make Oldham a more appealing place to go for an evening or night out.

Greater Manchester’s Nighttime Economy Adviser, Sacha Lord, is supporting the town’s drive to create a unique new offer by hosting a special Evening and Nighttime Economy Round Table on Friday, March 22, to bring all interested partners together.

Sacha said: “Oldham has big plans for the local economy – and you can see it through the changes and developments taking place. I am a massive believer in harnessing the power of partnerships and local people to develop fresh new plans.

“We all want a vibrant, welcoming and successful night-time economy for the town. I hope this roundtable will be a place for creativity, ideas and to develop and new vision and taskforce to deliver it from every part of the cultural, hospitality and public sectors.”

Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah said: “If we’re going to make Oldham the place to go again for locals and visitors, we need to do something different. Only by working together can we develop fresh new propositions to attract people across our diverse communities back into the centre on a night.

“Whether that’s families, non-drinkers, or people of all ages who want a great time, we want them back! We’re investing to transform the town centre, including a new-look Spindles, public spaces and through events that attract footfall and benefit businesses during the day and increasingly evening.

“But we need to do more – and maybe something very different. Experts like Sacha bring wider experiences and perspectives, so together we can create a unique Oldham offer.”

One proposed goal is to win Purple Flag status for the town. This is an internationally recognised accreditation for towns and city centres, which means people can expect an entertaining, diverse, and safe night out.

*To join Oldham’s Evening and Night Time Economy Roundtable event, please contact invest@oldham.gov.uk