Plans for new theatre showcased at joint consultation event

Detailed plans for the new theatre and home for the Coliseum have gone on display to the public - showcasing a modern and inclusive space that the council insists is relevant and right for Oldham.

Computer-generated images of architects’ designs show a venue that will be uniquely Oldham and embodies the rich and diverse history and heritage of the town, its people, its streets and buildings.

Plans for the £24m theatre, to be built in heritage buildings in the town centre, have been created and are being consulted on with the Oldham Coliseum, the Arts Council and other cultural organisations in Oldham.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “One of the very first things I did after becoming Leader of the Council last month was to meet with the Oldham Coliseum board.

“We agreed they will be tenants at the brand-new theatre we are building in Union Street – underlining our collective determination to work together for the good of theatre in the borough.

“I'm really glad we can showcase more details on our proposals for the new theatre and get feedback input on them from our communities and theatre users.

"We asked what you wanted and you told us you want a modern and accessible venue where packed audiences can enjoy a variety of performances so take a look at how they’re coming along and let us know what you think and what else it needs.

“We are working hand-in-hand with the Oldham Coliseum, Arts Council and other cultural partners to shape these plans and, together, provide a theatre to be proud of and one that can support the Coliseum’s future as a thriving producing theatre company.”

Duncan Craig OBE, Chair of Trustees at Oldham Coliseum, said: “Since forming the new Board of Trustees for Oldham Coliseum Theatre, we met the key people including architects and project planners who are leading on this massive project.

“We’re excited to see what Oldham residents and business owners have to say as the public consultation begins.

“There is, of course, much more to do before a new theatre, our new home, is realised but for us as a board, we think this is an exciting step in the journey.

“I’d encourage everyone to get involved and share their thoughts and opinions and I hope to meet as many people as possible – this is your theatre.”

Jennifer Cleary, Director North at Arts Council England, said: “We welcome this next stage in the development of Oldham's new theatre, which will play a pivotal role in delivery of the borough’s cultural strategy and the future opportunities for young people, artists, creatives and the wider community in Oldham and beyond.

"The Arts Council remains committed to Oldham and we will continue to collaborate with and support partners in the realisation of these exciting plans.”

Proposals have been shaped so far through The Big Oldham Conversation and the architects visiting future generations of theatregoers, artists and entertainment professionals in Oldham’s schools and colleges to find out what they wanted.

There is now a chance for many more people to give their input and feedback on the plans as a consultation takes place from now until Monday (July 3).

This consultation includes an open event where key people from Oldham Council and the Coliseum will be available to talk about the designs at Gallery Oldham in Greaves Street on Monday, between 4pm and 7pm.

The theatre, a key part of our new-look town centre, will provide a more modern, accessible venue for performers and audiences from Oldham and beyond.

You can see the plans and feedback in person at Gallery Oldham in Greaves Street, and they include fuller details of the design and layout, along with new architect’s drawings.

They are also available online here

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