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A computer diagram of the proposed dealership

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COUNCIL chiefs have struck a deal to bring an Audi dealership to Oldham in an £8million investment trhat will create 87 jobs.

A 17-car showroom for new vehicles and 24-bay service workshop will adorn the former Westhulme Hospital site, off Chadderton Way.

The council was approached by Jardine Group, one of the UK’s largest Audi dealers, last year. Jardine wants a centre capable of supporting the company’s existing Audi businesses across the region.

Though the land wasn’t council-owned, officers have worked with their NHS counterparts to complete the deal. A planning application will be entered in the next few weeks; approval will see work begin this summer.

Oldham Council leader Jean Stretton said: “Audi is the type of high-end global brand we want to attract. We’ve done it already with Marks and Spencer at Prince’s Gate, and this again shows blue-chip firms see the borough as a place they can do business.”

“Jardine has also confirmed it is committed to our Get Oldham Working campaign, and is looking forward to working with local colleges and supply chains - which is great news for jobseekers and the local economy.”

Andy Davies, Audi brand director from Jardine Motors Group, said: “We are proud to be opening our 12th Audi centre in Oldham. This is an exciting time to be launching a new Audi business and we look forward to establishing ourselves in the local community.”

The proposals will still allow for a sports pitch to be built on the site - a planning requirement from a previous land deal the council concluded with the NHS. The site would have new access off Chadderton Way