Oldham Council’s joint venture company to revitalise town centre

A Lancashire-based joint venture company plans to enter an agreement with one of Oldham’s largest employers, in a bid to transform a key development site in the heart of the borough and safeguard jobs in the process.

Meridian Development Company, of which the town’s council is a primary stakeholder, is set to revitalise the Meridian Business Centre complex with not-for-profit housing association First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO). The move is expected to safeguard jobs and attract further development on other vacant plots in the area.

The plans are for a new FCHO depot to replace the Copster Hill depot, bringing it closer to its Union Street headquarters.

The leader of Oldham Council, Jim McMahon, said: “Oldham is undergoing significant change with many regeneration projects currently taking place, like the Old Town Hall and Prince’ s Gate developments. We’re creating a borough where businesses can invest and flourish.

“The Meridian Business Centre site is one of many sites in and around the town centre that offers exceptional retail and commercial opportunities – as well as being well connected to our public transport links. The council, through its joint venture company, is seeking to deliver a property solution that will help safeguard jobs and open up further development opportunities.”

He added: “As a co-operative council we’re committed to developing the right partnerships to deliver a future that takes full advantage of Oldham’s improving connectivity and supports the economic growth of the borough and its role within Greater Manchester.”

Cabinet members are expected to make a decision over the Meridian site by the King Street roundabout this Monday (July 20).

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