Werneth set for housing boost

A DESOLATE area of Oldham affected by the end of the Housing Market Renewal initiative is set for regeneration.

Oldham Council intends to push the redevelopment of South Werneth by buying and demolishing several properties.

Cabinet members approved the disposal of 38 former HMR assets and the purchase of 10 properties on Lynn Street and Cambridge Street which will produce a defined site for a new-build development.

Werneth was one of the first neighbourhoods in Oldham in which HMR was involved. £26m has been invested in the area since 2004.

The Werneth Steering Group has endorsed the council’s plan, which will be close to the current development of 112 new homes close to Spencer Street on the Chadderton border.



7,200 on waiting list

AROUND 7,200 Oldhamers are on the council’s housing waiting list.


The local authority says it needs to make “effective use” of the 770 estimated new affordable homes due to be built across the borough over the next four years.

This includes promoting a “downsizing” scheme, encouraging those in over-large homes for their needs to move to smaller properties. This has already freed over 200 family homes.

Around 4,000 people are looking for one-bedroom accommodation, according to a new council report.



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