Summer ’18 target for Prince’s Gate

OLDHAM Council is aiming to complete its Prince’s Gate redevelopment project of stores, apartments and businesses at Mumps by the summer of 2018.

The project is expected to create more than 700 jobs and generate up to £19million a year for the local economy. The historic former Natwest bank building will remain to incorporate a gym, restaurants, retail and office space. A modern extension will be home to 54 apartments.

There will also be a Marks and Spencer store and up to four other retailers on what is currently the Metrolink car park, whose spaces will move across the road behind the existing coffee shop.

Proposals include six shops in front of the car park, as well as either a hotel or 36 apartments.

The RSPCA centre at Rhodes Bank has already been demolished to make way for a supermarket, 55 apartments and a 250-bay car park.

The council is moving things more quickly by buying the land itself in the expectation that the completion date will be brought forward.

Councillor Dave Hibbert said: “I’m really pleased to see this coming along. It’s a clear indication that Oldham is full of ambition and determination. It proves Oldham is not a poor town. We should hold our heads high and be proud of what we have achieved over the last couple of years. It’s down to the determination of our last leader, Jim McMahon.”