OLDHAM’S Conservatives group have raised concerns over the initial levels of engagement by residents regarding plans to transform The Spindles Shopping Centre.

The Labour-run council bought the site for £9.5m last year and is proposing to move Tommyfield Market into the centre, and to relocate the local authority offices to the middle of Oldham.

The plans are being supported by £24.5m of cash from the government’s Towns Fund.

But the Conservatives have expressed worries after seeing residents voice their opinions that the plans could lead to rising prices, the loss of the traditional market “feel” of the market, and some questioning the need for the change.

Conservative councillor for Royton North, Dave Arnott, said: “The Conservatives oppose these plans with serious concerns over the eventual cost of relocation and development, which is estimated to be in the region of £64m and doubts over the level of consultation and engagement that had taken place before council leaders decided to spend close to £10m purchasing the site.

“However, should the redevelopment progress, I would urge the council to make every effort to engage as fully as possible with Oldham residents at each stage of this process, and to understand that consensus is every bit as important as architects plans.

"The council really must 'take the residents of Oldham with them' if it hopes to be successful, otherwise there will be the perception this is simply another hugely expensive project in the town centre that people don’t understand, don’t want or are completely indifferent to.”

In response, Oldham Council leader,Cllr Arooj Shah said: “Our plans for Spindles are about setting Oldham up for the future.

"We need a blend of retail with fun, family-friendly activities, work spaces, homes and hospitality.

“Based on what residents have told us, we’re taking bold steps to make Oldham a great place to live and spend time. We’re not stepping back and accepting decline.

“Earlier this year more than 2,000 residents responded to our consultation about the town centre, with another 400 responding on social media.

“The overwhelming response was a desire for the council to take action to improve the town.

“The Conservatives seem determined to ignore those opinions to score points, but we won’t.

“We’ve taken people’s views on board and will be bringing our ideas back for further consultation shortly.

“The people of Oldham have clearly told us they want a better future for themselves and their families – decent jobs, decent homes, good education for our children and nice places to spend time. That’s our focus.”