New wave of shops spark Yorkshire Street rebirth

Reporter: ROBBIE MacDONALD
Date published: 28 February 2014


FIVE businesses have highlighted a £1million investment project to improve Oldham town centre’s range of independent shops.

The businesses — two of which are relocating from other premises — will help to attract shoppers into Yorkshire Street as the council tries to develop it as a destination for independent retailers.

One of the new shops — Scoots, Suits and Boots — specialises in retro and Mod clothing and follows five years of successful online trading.

Other new businesses include Illumina Hair Salon and Kashmir Bakery, which opened in December and February, respectively.

Ahsan Ali, owner of the bakery, said Bradford-based Kashmir is Europe’s biggest Asian baker: “We have 14 branches across the north including one in Rochdale, where we gets lot of Oldham customers. We decided to open a shop in Oldham and estate agents recommended Yorkshire Street. We wanted to be in the town centre rather than an Asian neighbourhood.”

Family-run Nursery Goods Direct has relocated to Yorkshire Street, while Muso’s music shop has moved next door to bigger premises.

Harold Rich, who runs Nursery Goods Direct with son Robert, has relocated the business from Mumps. he said: “Oldham town centre still needs lots doing to it but some good shops are coming here now and we hope this will continue.”

Jenny Dawson, owner of Illumina, and stylist Darcy Jones said customers were returning to Oldham now the tram works are ended.



Oldham Council has a new £1 million funding package to support local independent businesses and key town-centre development sites. The money can be used to help refurbish buildings or relocate existing businesses,

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, Oldham cabinet member for business and town centres, said: “We want to attract new independent businesses and breathe new life into empty units. Our package provides business support and property-management arrangements and help including grants, training and mentoring. Building Improvement Grants are also on offer to help to improve the exterior of key buildings and shop fronts.” Details at: invest@oldham.gov.uk.