A new creative hub at Oldham Edge is set to provide a welcoming space for young people and amateur creatives to build their talents, with a focus on real-world skills and collaboration. The initiative, spearheaded by Matt Ramsbottom of the Oldham Chronicle and Credible Media, aims to counter the overwhelming influence of social media by fostering authentic, hands-on creativity in a supportive environment.

"Social media is part of everyday life and it can be powerful," Ramsbottom said. "But we all know it can also be detrimental for some people. What we want to do is bring things back to being real, real skills, real collaboration, real credibility."

The hub will operate as a "credible learning community," offering residents—from schoolchildren to adult hobbyists—a place to grow their confidence and develop their abilities outside of digital pressures. By prioritising small, collaborative groups, the project aims to nurture individuality rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, while promoting respect for people, ideas, and the creative space itself.

Ramsbottom brings over three decades of industry experience to the venture. He began his career as a DJ at Jilly’s Rockworld in Manchester before moving into senior roles in commercial radio. Alongside his media work, he is also a qualified youth worker, giving him a unique insight into the challenges facing young people today.

"It’s about creating an environment where people feel supported, confident and proud of what they create," he added.

Plans for the hub include a dedicated team and partnerships with like-minded organisations to deliver events, workshops, and collaborations across Oldham. While specific details are still being finalised, organisers hope the hub will become a focal point for local creativity, helping participants gain credibility and practical skills that can transfer into education, employment, or personal projects.

The initiative has been welcomed as a positive step for Oldham’s cultural scene, offering an alternative to screen-based interaction and giving people the chance to connect face-to-face. By focusing on real-world outcomes, the hub aims to build lasting confidence among its members.

Further information about team opportunities, partnerships, and how to get involved will be released online in the coming weeks as the project moves towards its official launch. In the meantime, those interested are encouraged to keep an eye on local announcements for updates.