Work starts on new Oldham sports centre

Oldham Council leader Jim McMahon officially got work underway on Oldham’s new £15million flagship leisure centre - by taking the controls of a large digger!

The new centre, at the junction of Manchester Street and St Domingo Street, will include a swimming pool, learner pool, 80-station fitness studio, changing facilities, cafe and an eight-court sports hall.

Councillor McMahon said: “It’s exciting to see the diggers on the site after all the detailed planning and preparation.

“Local people have been waiting a long time for new facilities in Oldham and residents are beginning to see a number of ambitious developments taking shape — like the cinema-led complex at the old town hall. A new leisure facility for Oldham is an important piece of the regeneration jigsaw.”

The new sports centre is expected to attract regional competitions in some sports, even televised events. It will also act as a physical bridge linking Oldham College and the Sixth Form College.

The current Oldham Sports Centre, on Lord Street, will not close until the new one is complete — set to be autumn 2015 — to ensure there is no break in service.