Sunday trading extension not a priority

OLDHAM COUNCIL

OLDHAM’S council leader admitted that the extension of Sunday trading hours for shops was “quite low down” on his priority list.

Councillor Jim McMahon said he would need to see more evidence for or against the move which was proposed by Tory chancellor George Osborne in last week’s budget.

But he insisted that any decision on changes to Sunday opening in the borough would be made by people in Oldham and not outsiders.

“The pressures this town and council face are quite significant.

“This last-minute thing thrown in the budget has the ability to distract from that, but I’m not going to let it,” said Councillor McMahon.

“I haven’t had the time to research it. How high is it on my priority list? It’s quite low down.”

Lib-Dem opposition leader Councillor Howard Sykes said extended Sunday opening hours could boost businesses in the borough and create more jobs.

But he added: “It can also encroach on quality time and family life.”