Stunning new flagship home for FCHO

ARTIST’S impression of the new FCHO HQ

A STUNNING glass flagship headquarters for one of Oldham’s largest employers is set to be built in the town centre, bringing extra jobs to the borough.

The landmark home for First Choice Homes Oldham will boost the local economy and increase apprenticeships for young people when constructed, claims the housing association boss.

Council chiefs recommended the sale of land at Union Street and Phoenix Street to the not-for-profit company at last night’s cabinet meeting. FCHO expects the new HQ to be open by autumn 2014.

The HQ will be the work base for the majority of FCHO’s current 450-plus employees.

The housing association, whose current base is in Phoenix Street, will acquire and demolish the existing Phoenix Centre in Union Street — plus a former car park — for the three-floor, 35,000 sq ft development.

Cath Green, FCHO’s chief executive, said: “As Oldham’s largest housing association, and one of the largest local employers, we recognise our responsibility to create economic opportunities in Oldham.

The building will also be a centre for the tenants of FCHO’s 12,000 homes.

Existing services are being relocated from the hoenix Centre

Councillor Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council added: “This is an excellent regeneration scheme and it will breathe new life into an important town centre site.”



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