Oldham scheme on track to improving accessibility in town

The Accessible Oldham scheme is a major four-year project which seeks to make it easier, safer and more enjoyable to travel around the town, particularly for cyclists, pedestrians, people in wheelchairs and those with prams and buggies.

It plans to deliver new cycle routes, offer better disabled parking and traffic-free zones.

The first phase of work started in the new year on Henshaw Street and Albion Street, improving access to the streets around the market hall.

The streets are much more friendly for cyclists and wheelchair users.

Cobbles have been smoothed down to make the streets much easier to use, which is a welcome move after some disabled people criticised Oldham's 'bone shaking' cobbled roads.

Holes for new trees have also been dug out and new drainage has been installed, including a new ‘rain garden’ feature which collects rainwater and uses plants to prevent flooding which in turn will make the area more attractive and eco-friendly.

Over the summer, new paving stones and steps will be installed with a focus on the large square on Albion Street, near to Curzon Street.

The transformation is being carried out by Oldham-based Rowan Ashworth Ltd on behalf of the council.

But the company also plans on ‘giving back’ to the local community and the economy by supporting the Oldham supply chain and by creating much-needed new jobs.

The commitment comes as part of an overall £10m social value commitment.

Jordan Greaves, from Oldham, was recently appointed trainee ground worker after being supported into the role by the council’s Get Oldham Working service.

Jordan Greaves has been appointed Trainee Ground Worker for the project.

Get Oldham Working offers free help and advice to Oldhamers who are looking for work.

Jordan, 21, said: "The Job Centre put me in touch with Get Oldham Working who recommended I send my CV and a covering letter to Rowan Ashworth as I already had my CSCS Card.

"A few days later they got in touch to offer me a trial - it went well and they took me on from there.

Cobbles have been smoothed out.

"I'm really enjoying it, I've been doing a bit of everything and learning a lot.

"I had been previously working as a gardener but broke my hand and lost work.

"This has given me a fresh start and I'm really looking forward to seeing how things go." 

Oldham Council leader Amanda Chadderton added: “Thank you to businesses and visitors for their patience and understanding while we carry out these important works.

"Accessible Oldham is making a huge difference to the look and feel of our town centre and will complement our wider ambitions to transform the town centre, including the redevelopment of Spindles Town Square and the creation of the new Jubilee Park. 

“These projects are not just about investing in Oldham as a place, they’re also about investing in our people and it’s fantastic to hear how the project has helped Jordan start his new career.

"We wish him every success in the future. 

“It’s also helping to support the local economy and supply chain, something that’s really important as we recover from the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis increases. 

“We look forward to the scheme continuing to transform the town centre and playing its part in improving Oldham in many ways.” 

Accessible Oldham has been funded after the council successfully bid for financial support from a number of external funding pots, including the Local Growth Deal, Future High Streets Fund and the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Cycling and Walking Challenge Fund.