MP on the attack over Latics forum

Oldham Athletic has been criticised for charging the public to attend an open forum about the club’s controversial plans to move to Failsworth.

Up to 300 visitors will be charged £2 to attend the question and answer session at The Radclyffe School, Hunt Lane, Chadderton, on Monday.

Now Ashton Labour MP David Heyes, whose constituency includes Failsworth and Hollinwood, has hit out at Latics chiefs for charging the public — and for not holding the meeting in Failsworth in the first place.

He said: “There is an almost identical school in Failsworth. They could have held their meeting there. And the idea of charging for it is just bizarre.”

Mr Heyes, who has not been approached by the club about its plans to sell Boundary Park and move to a 12,000-seater stadium at the bottom of Broadway, said: “This is not real consultation. If Latics genuinely want to consult with those most directly affected by their plans, then they need to find a venue in Failsworth.

“If the first meeting is over-subscribed the club needs to hold further meetings until everyone who does want to question them about their plans has had the opportunity to do so.

“There are many, many concerns which may well melt away when it is explained properly. I am happy to go and talk to them if they want to invite me along.”

Failsworth East councillor Jim McMahon, Oldham’s Labour leader, said: “Holding a meeting on the other side of Chadderton to discuss matters which affect Failsworth residents and charging people for the privilege of attending is cynical. It will do nothing to allay the concerns of residents most directly affected.

“The meeting also clashes with the first Failsworth Ward Forum, which is attended by all of the Failsworth councillors — and the issue of Latics relocating to Failsworth is an important matter on the agenda.”

A Latics spokesman explained the charge would ensure tickets went to people who will definitely attend.

Athletic director Simon Corney declined to comment on Mr Heyes’s criticisms.