Oldham Lib-Dem leader seeks exact cost to Council tax payers of shopping centre purchase

Oldham Council bought the Spindles shopping centre towards the end of last year

‘What did it cost us?’

Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group and Real Opposition on Oldham Council, wants an answer to that question in connection with the recent purchase of the Spindles and Town Square shopping centres.

Councillor Sykes has submitted a request under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act to Deputy Chief Executive Helen Lockwood and Director of Finance Anne Ryans in order to drill down to the final bill for Oldham’s Council tax payers.

“Different figures have been bandied about in Council meetings and in media reports," said Cllr Sykes.

"I would like to know what the final bill is, and I am sure that our long-suffering ratepayers want to know too.

“The final bill is not just the agreed purchase price, but also the professional fees and any taxes associated with the purchase, and in addition the costs incurred in subsequently buying out the Top Man lease.

“I hope that the response to my FOI request will bring clarity. 

"In the interests of public accountability, it is important that with any large-ticket item the final cost to ratepayers is made public.”

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