1,500 jobs potential with regeneration project
Reporter: Robbie MacDonald
Date published: 27 September 2013
WORK is expected to start within months on a regeneration scheme that could create 1,500 jobs on land off the M60 at Hollinwood.
The plan will mean the removal of an iconic, giant gasometer - in 1913, when it was built, the country’s largest, 165ft high and holding up to 144,000 cu ft of gas.
Merseyside-based development form Langtree has outline planning permission from Oldham Council to develop a 215,000 sq ft site known as Hollinwood Point.
Langtree has developed office parks, industrial estates and trade parks across the north and Midlands.
John Downes, its chief executive, said: “It’s taken a lot of careful thought and work with Oldham Council to arrive at this point and we’re delighted with the help we’ve received.
“This will be really good, employment-led scheme that will transform the neighbourhood and accommodate up to 1,500 jobs.
“If all goes well and subject to funding, we’d hope to be on the site with essential infrastructure sometime next year. It’s a really good scheme that will bring significant employment opportunities to the neighbourhood, as well as regenerating an area in need of investment.”
Councillor Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council, said: “It gives me pleasure, not only as leader of the council, but also as a ward councillor and resident, that Langtree has outline permission for these plans. Hopefully this is the start of an exciting phase in the regeneration of Hollinwood.
“The redevelopment of this site and the arrival of Metrolink in Hollinwood has the potential to bring many opportunities for this area and the wider borough, though the creation of jobs and economic benefits.
