Save our Link

Protest by Link Centre users about its possible closure. PIC shows Pat Knaggs (one of the longest members of Oldham Disability Arts).

3 More Image(s) In Gallery

PENSIONERS took to the street yesterday to protest over proposals to shut the "lifeline" Oldham Link Centre.

They were among 30 representatives from groups using the Union Street building who brandished handmade placards and made their voices heard. More than 2,000 residents have signed a petition objecting to the proposed closure of the centre, which comes as Oldham Council looks to save more than £20 million following reductions in funding from central government.

A coalition of 10 self-help groups has also been formed to campaign against the plans while a public consultation is ongoing.

Chair of Oldham Disability Arts Forum Myra Wyers, who headed up the peaceful protest, said: "Please support us in the attempt to save The Link Centre because it will be a disaster for such a unique and wonderful place to disappear and become derelict.

"Councillors of Oldham please do your utmost to keep it for us.

"There is a booklet to pick up at the reception telling you all we do at the centre.

"There are a great deal of people who do not know about it until they need to use it.

"We know the council knows how important The Link Centre is to us and all who use it but it needs to be advertised."

Jamie Knott (30), a member of an access and confidence group said: "I have a lot of friends here. Where else is there in Oldham?

"There are Blue Badge facilities, places for the elderly, assessments, art groups.

"I would like to reach out to the public to help us campaign for it to stay open because we are small on our own."

There are more than 60 groups currently using the building, including Age UK, First Stop, Oldham Carers, Sight Oldham and U3A.

Demonstrators stressed the value of purpose-built elements including the showers and bathing areas as well as the regular art sessions and groups for card making, knitting, sewing and embroidery.

Karen Marsden (41), who is part of the PHAB group which meets at the centre every Monday, said: "It would be a huge shame if it closes because it has everything in it."

A drop-in session has been scheduled for Wednesday, November 2, between 5 and 8pm at the centre.

Liberal Democrat Shaw and Crompton parish councillor Louie Hamblett (25) said: "I am an autistic councillor and used to use this building when I was younger."

The Link Centre was opened on March 23, 2000, under the direction of the late Councillor Phil Harrison, with the aim to help those with disabilities access advice and support to live independently.

Councillor Hamblett added: "There are various community groups using this building ­- it is Councillor Harrison's legacy and the current administration are going against his will despite him being one of their own."

Harry Green (67) said: "It is a big disappointment for all concerned, especially the wheelchair-bound because it has every facility for us."

Wasim Aslam, who works at Cafe Lahore, opposite the site, said: "This is a valuable place.

"It is where so many people come to meet and greet and seek support.

"I see people coming in all the time ­- we are talking about more than 450 people."

There are 10 organisations who meet at the centre who have joined the coalition, including U3A with more than 200 members and mental health support group Cleo with its 20 regular members.

Chair of Cleo, Rowland Urey (69) said: "There are 10 organisations who have set up a coalition to campaign against the closure.

"We are going to put the proposals forward at a consultation meeting on Wednesday.

"It is about being proactive and remaining positive.

"We want to speak with one voice because unity is paramount in this situation.

"This venue is a lifeline. This keeps people well and gives people social contact. It guards against alienation and isolation.

"Where would people go if it closed?"

To give feedback, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/linkcentre2016.