Pointing the way forward

HERE’S what we’re going to do: Councillor Akhtar talks to traders Jean Tyler (left) and Stephen Grundy

Better signs and more free parking in bid to halt town-centre decline
COUNCIL chiefs plan to boost Oldham town centre with better signs, improved shop fronts and more free parking.

The council is looking intointroducing two-hour free parking in all council-owned car parks in the town centre.

Deputy council leader Councillor Shoab Akhtar Akhtar also plans to brighten up empty shop frontages with artwork by local students.

Councillor Akhtar has also promised a monthly “walkabout” to talk to disgruntled retailers.

Metrolink works, poor signage, parking and derelict shops have all been cited as big problems for remaining businesses.

He said: “We want people to come to Oldham — we don’t want them going to Bury or Rochdale.”

The council has arranged for temporary road signs around town to show motorists how to get to Yorkshire Street while roadworks continue. More will show how to reach the Metrolink station. Phoenix Street car park, previously used by council staff, has been opened to the public and is available for retailers.

Councillor Akhtar said: “We’re looking at getting Oldham College students to display some artwork in the empty shops.

Stephen Grundy, owner of Grundy’s Hearing Centre, Retiro Street said: “In Liverpool they are setting up pop-up shops where students can sell things like artwork. We could do something like that here.

“When they leave school they might be encouraged to set up business here.”

Councillor Akhtar organised the changes in response to a cry for help from 27 businesses in Yorkshire Street, Union Street, George Street and High Street in May.


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