All Rhodes lead to a new Mumps

MAKING way . . . demolition work starts on Rhodes Bank’s RSPCA building

DEMOLITION work has started on three empty town centre properties to make way for the exciting Prince’s Gate development at Oldham Mumps.

The former RSPCA building and close-by Roscoe Mill and the former Oldham Hide, Skin and Fat building will all be demolished. Contractors are already on site carrying out internal works and the full demolition work is expected to last up to 14 weeks.

The RSPCA Oldham and Bury branch has temporarily moved from Rhodes Bank to Retiro Street while a new base at the former Strinesdale Visitor Centre, on Holgate Street, is completed.

Unveiled in November, last year, Prince’s Gate will transform the area and offer a wide range of exciting new opportunities for residents, visitors and businesses. The centrepiece will be a 51,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store. The new development, which will have an underground car park, will open in 2018.

Councillor Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council, said: “Once clearance work is completed it will allow us to move forward with our ambitious plans for the area.”