CONSTRUCTION work has now officially started on Mahdlo Youth Zone’s state-of-the-art extension to accommodate the charity’s growing creative offer.

The Space, as it has been aptly named, will aim to reach more young people from the borough who have an interest in creative expression through arts, drama and music.

The venue is expected to open in mid-2019 and will offer a host of events from open mic nights, theatre performances, dance sessions and gigs.

Mahdlo president Sir Norman Stoller, the founder of The Stoller Charitable Trust, said: “I passionately believe that Mahdlo enables youngsters to understand they can achieve anything that they dare to dream.

“I have so much pride in what Mahdlo has achieved over the years. Creating this additional space within the Youth Zone to continue its fantastic work on a larger scale within the community, will provide an offer that has never been seen before in Oldham.”

The new venue will also be available for hire during the day by local businesses, schools, community groups and other organisations.

Mahdlo chief executive Mike Doran added: “We’re so grateful for additional funding, The Space will not only provide young people with a facility that is dedicated to expressing themselves, but it will enable us to build a truly unique creative offer with our partners, such as the Coliseum. None of this would have been possible without the incredibly generous support of The Stoller Charitable Trust.”

Mahdlo, is a registered charity and state-of-the-art Youth Zone providing activities and practical support for young people aged eight to 19 (25 with disabilities). Yearly membership is just £5 and entrance to each session is just 50p.