A new flexible event space, The Loom, has officially opened in Oldham town centre, marking a significant step in the borough's regeneration. The venue, which stands at Parliament Square next to The Spindles shopping centre and above the new Oldham Market, promises to serve as a hub for community gatherings, business events, and celebrations of all kinds.

The Loom offers exceptional flexibility, with the capacity to host up to 1,000 guests standing, around 700 seated, or 500 for dining. The space can be left open as one large area or divided into smaller rooms, allowing it to cater to a wide array of events. Options include conferences, networking events, awards nights, formal dinners, celebrations, theatre performances, exhibitions, wedding fairs, and parties complete with a stage, DJ setup, and dancefloor.

The naming of The Loom, along with The Market and The Spindles, is a conscious tribute to Oldham's heritage. In the 19th century, Oldham was the world centre for cotton spinning, and these names evoke the tools and spaces associated with that industry—such as the weaving loom, the market where goods were traded, and the spindles used in spinning. This connection to the past is designed to ground the new development in the area's historical identity.

Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah spoke at the opening event, hailing the venue as a "landmark moment" for the town centre. "The Loom is a powerful symbol of Oldham's transformation," she said. "It brings together our proud heritage and our bold vision for the future, weaving new opportunities for culture, business and community into the fabric of our town. This is exactly the kind of vibrant, flexible space that will see Oldham thrive — a place where people can come together, celebrate together, and create moments that matter."

The opening of The Loom is part of a wider programme of investment in Oldham town centre. The Spindles shopping centre has been redeveloped, and the new market has been established nearby. These projects aim to revitalise the town, attract new visitors, and support local businesses. The Loom, with its modern facilities and adaptable spaces, is expected to play a crucial role in this regeneration effort.

Guests at the launch event expressed enthusiasm for the new venue. Many appreciated its design, which blends contemporary aesthetics with nods to Oldham's industrial past. The Loom is seen as a versatile asset that can host everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale events, providing a much-needed space for cultural and economic activities.

As Oldham continues to evolve, The Loom stands as a testament to the town's resilience and ambition. It offers a space where memories can be made, ideas can be shared, and the community can come together. With its strategic location and flexible design, The Loom is poised to become a cornerstone of Oldham's social and business scene.