Proud of our vision for Oldham...

OLDHAM Council leader Jim McMahon is proud of the council’s plan to transform the former town hall into an 800-seat cinema complex.

Councillor McMahon told the council’s cabinet last night how much the project is costing - £36.7million; - and now much it might bring to Oldham, namely £55m over 10 years, and 233 jobs.

The report also said simply maintaining the town hall building would have cost the council more than £16m.

Councillor McMahon said he believes Oldhamers are behind the project and despite a few negative responses, most people are excited.

“I am very proud we have found an alternative use for the town hall. The cheapest thing would have been to demolish the building and sell the land, but that would have taken away the soul of the town.”