Shaw still a target for Wetherspoons chain

PUB chain Wetherspoons is still 100 per cent committed to opening an outlet in Shaw.

An application to transform the derelict Four Lane End shopping centre in Milnrow Road was recommended for refusal by both Shaw Planning Committee and Oldham Planning Committee, but was withdrawn by the company before councillors ruled on the scheme.
A report in Monday’s Evening Chronicle wrongly stated the application was rejected by councillors and we apologise for the error.

Councillors were concerned that Wetherspoons had not carried out proper consultation with residents, nearby businesses and elected members before submitting the plans.

There were also concerns that customers using the beer garden and smoking shelter would create a lot of noise late at night for neighbouring residents.

Wetherspoons withdrew its application when the company learned it had been recommended for refusal but the chain is still interested in opening a pub in Shaw.

Spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We were told by the planning officers that the application had been earmarked for refusal so we decided to withdraw it.

“We are still 100 per cent committed to opening a pub on this site so we will be going back to the drawing board and resubmitting revised plans at some point in the future. Shaw is an area that we are very keen to open a pub in.”

Four Lane End shopping centre, known as Greensway, was destroyed by a massive fire in December 2009.

The blaze, a suspected arson attack, started in the Crazy Fast Foods Takeaway and spread to neighbouring businesses damaging Lewelle’s hairdresser, Lewisbet bookmakers, The Bubble Patch haberdashery and two empty shops. All slots have been empty since the fire.

The development would bring much-needed jobs and investment to the dilapidated site — but concerns have been raised over the number of pubs and takeaways already in the centre of Shaw.

Wetherspoons has 793 pubs nationwide, including Up Steps and Squire Knott in Oldham town centre and is renowned for low prices and long opening hours.