Time is now to save our heritage

CRUMBLING . . . inside Oldham’s old town hall

LABOUR has called for political parties to unite to save Oldham’s historic buildings.

Its local leader says it is time to respect the importance of the boroughs heritage — or Oldham’s pride will be damaged beyond repair.

The call comes a week after the Chronicle revealed the old town hall is rotting away with masonry falling from the ceiling and furniture and decorations plundered.

The dilapidated building is only months away from a major roof collapse and it could cost up to £30million to restore it.

Lib Dem council leader Councillor Howard Sykes has asked Oldhamers what they want to do with the Grade II-listed building.

Labour group leader Councillor Jim McMahon signalled an end to political point scoring and called for cross-party support.

He said: “Usually in cases like this the new administration would point to Labour’s time in control of the council and we would point back to the three years under the Lib Dems — but it does nothing to solve the real problem we all face.

“It just convinces people further we put politics above the good of Oldham — and no one will thank us for that.

“Oldham Council has a good track record in respecting people’s cultural heritage but fails miserably when it comes to the historical fabric of our borough. The council cannot continue to take such a black and white view of things, it has a social and civic duty to protect these buildings and find a viable modern day use.”

A move to modern accommodation in recent year has meant many of the older, historic buildings have fallen into disuse, he said. But funding will always be a problem.

“This is no easy task but rather than asking for more money from hard-pressed taxpayers we should be looking at the waste and bureaucracy that exists in the council and make savings there — using this money where it should rightfully be spent, on the assets the people of the borough have entrusted with us,” he added.

Councillor McMahon, who has been heavily involved in preserving and recognising heritage and history in his Failsworth ward, backed proposals from the Oldham Coliseum to relocate to the town hall.

He said that could bring in vital grant funding and, although a huge undertaking, would give Oldham a real jewel in its crown.