Rift over plans for market

Plans for Shaw Market to be moved to Market Street.

THE leaders of Oldham’s two main political parties are at loggerheads over the future of Shaw market.

Last week, Oldham’s licensing panel approved a 10-week trial from August 27 that will see temporary stalls on a pedestrianised Market Street. The hope is that the new location will boost a steady decline in traders.

The council has pledged £120,000 to support the market move if it becomes permanent plus an extra £100,000 fund to support new and existing businesses.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “A lot of people took part in this consultation and we thank them all for their views. Though the market traders are backing these plans, some of the businesses between Rochdale Road and Farrow Street East didn’t agree with them. We respect that: no stalls will be going in front of their businesses on market days.

“It’s going to be very interesting to see how it performs nearer to busier areas and we’ll be looking to see how things are going with great interest from August 27 onwards.”

But Shaw ward Councillor and Lib-Dem leader Howard Sykes says Labour is pressing on with its plans without giving anyone a straight answer. He has launched a petition to keep the market in its current location, with a promise of council investment.

Visit www.oldham.gov.uk/ShawMarketTrial to find out more about the trial.