Cinema plans gather pace

CONTRACTORS shortlisted to develop the Old Town Hall are to be invited to learn more about the historic building.

Oldham Council has received bids to refurbish the building and create an eight- screen cinema, four restaurants and shops from almost 100 companies.

Six have been shortlisted and their representatives asked to meet council leader Jim McMahon on Monday. They will learn more about Oldham’s wider regeneration plans and take a tour inside the former town hall.

Councillor McMahon said: “Our plans for the old town hall are integral to our vision for the wider town centre. Oldham needs a cinema and family entertainment and this site offers a fantastic opportunity to deliver that.

“As well as allowing bidders to hold talks with our project team, it’s also important they get to see the venue for themselves and understand our passion to restore it as a symbol of civic pride.”

After the visit, bidders will have six weeks to submit tenders for work to begin in the autumn.