Highest paid council bosses in Greater Manchester revealed in ‘town hall rich list’
Oldham Council’s chief executive earns £160,000 a year, placing the borough 7th among Greater Manchester’s ten councils with 20 staff on six-figure packages in the 2024-25 TaxPayers’ Alliance “town hall rich list”.
How £8m of cuts in Oldham could affect YOU as council bids to balance the books
Oldham Council is proposing £8 million in budget cuts that could directly impact residents through reduced waste collection services, scaled-back youth programmes, and decreased day-care provision for disabled adults as it attempts to balance its books.
Full list of all of Greater Manchester's 262 speed camera locations
A comprehensive list of the 262 fixed speed camera locations across all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester, including Oldham, has been released for public awareness.
Council issues warning about St George’s flag on roundabouts
Oldham Council has issued a warning against painting St George's flags on public property, such as roundabouts and roads, citing illegality under the Highways Act 1980, safety risks for motorists and pedestrians, and unnecessary costs to public funds. The council supports flying flags properly on private property but condemns graffiti. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham suggested such actions may be confrontational, while perpetrators elsewhere claim patriotic motives.
'There are literal gardens growing out of our gullies'
Hundreds of blocked gullies in Oldham have been reported, with residents and councillors expressing concerns over drainage systems overgrown with weeds and grass, posing flooding risks. Councillors from Shaw, Royton, and Saddleworth criticize the council's "ward by ward" cleaning schedule as insufficient and reactive. Oldham Council has extended its cleaning timeline, having visited 10 of 20 wards in 11 months, cleaned 14,871 gullies, and allocated an extra £150,000 to complete the program over the next 12-18 months, prioritizing flood-risk areas.
Oldham Council blasted over new name for refurbished library and new town hall
Oldham Council has faced criticism from councillors and some members of the public over the decision to rename the newly-refurbished Old Library as the J. R. Clynes Building. The £32m restoration project included a new council chamber, and council leader Arooj Shah defended the choice by highlighting Clynes' local roots and his journey from a mill worker to a Labour Party leader. Opposition councillors, particularly from the Conservative group, argued that the naming lacked public consultation and suggested more prominent figures. Public reaction was mixed, with some praising the tribute and others preferring simpler or more inclusive names.
‘Overpaid’ councillors speak out after payment error
Oldham councillors are demanding more information after it was revealed that some were overpaid due to an administrative error spanning three years. Councillors from various parties, including the Lib Dems and Conservatives, have pledged to repay the overpaid amounts but claim the council has not provided details on how much is owed. The council has commissioned an independent audit to investigate the issue, with results to be made public. Councillors expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and criticized the council's payroll system, which has been rated 'weak' or 'inadequate' for seven of the last eight years.
Council chopped down trees 10 months ago, but the cuttings still remain
Oldham Council chopped down trees and cleared rubbish from West End Street in October 2024 as part of a fly-tipping eradication effort, but the tree cuttings and new fly-tipped waste remain nearly a year later. Local resident Mohammed Hussain expressed frustration over the neglected area, which has become a hotspot for fly-tipping, drug use, and rodent infestations. The council cites a lack of funding to complete the cleanup and plans to seek additional government support for a broader community project.
New bins to include QR codes in bid to make recycling easier
Oldham Council is introducing QR codes on household bins to simplify recycling and waste management for residents. The QR codes will link to the council's rubbish and recycling webpage, allowing users to report missed collections, check bin schedules, and request assisted collections. The initiative aims to make the process more convenient and efficient, with the new bins expected to appear later this year.
Homeless camp outside Greater Manchester town hall 'moved on'
A homeless camp outside Oldham's town hall, which had been used as a shelter since February, has been cleared by council staff. The council claims no one was living there permanently and that support, including accommodation and guidance, was offered to those affected. The area has been secured ahead of the building's future redevelopment.
'It doesn’t matter if it’s only £2,000, they need to pay it back'
An administrative error in Oldham Council's payroll system resulted in councillors being overpaid for the past three years, with estimates suggesting the total overpayment is around £2,000. Local residents and some councillors have expressed frustration, demanding repayment and criticizing the council's ineptitude. The council is investigating the issue, but public trust is eroding due to perceived institutional failures.
Councillors overpaid for THREE YEARS in administrative "c***-up"
Oldham councillors have been overpaid for three years due to an administrative error in payroll processing, with basic allowances increasing by 1.7-11% annually instead of the intended amounts. The council is conducting an audit to determine the exact overpayment, estimated at around £2,000 across 60 councillors. Concerns have been raised about systemic payroll issues, as the process has been rated 'weak' or 'inadequate' for seven of the last eight years. The issue was flagged privately but not publicly disclosed, leading to accusations of a cover-up. The council denies this, stating group leaders were informed promptly. The exact overpayment amount and recovery process remain unclear.
A Greater Manchester borough is cracking down on HMOs, but there’s a catch
Oldham council is implementing an 'Article 4 direction' to gain more control over the establishment of HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) in response to resident complaints about the negative impact on communities. The directive, if approved by the government, will require all HMOs to undergo planning approval, addressing issues like clustering and strain on local services. While residents demand a blanket ban on HMOs, the council clarifies that the goal is to ensure quality accommodation rather than eliminate HMOs entirely. The motion passed unanimously and is set to take effect by January 1, 2026, unless blocked by the government.
Councillors overpaid due to ‘administrative error’
Oldham councillors have been overpaid for three consecutive years due to an administrative error, with basic allowances increasing by 1.7-11% annually instead of the intended amounts. The council is auditing the issue, estimating a total overpayment of around £2,000 across 60 councillors. The error has raised concerns about broader payroll inefficiencies, as the payroll process has been rated 'weak' or 'inadequate' for seven of the last eight years. The issue was flagged privately but not publicly disclosed during a council meeting, leading to accusations of a cover-up, which the council denies. The exact overpayment amount and recovery process remain unclear.
Crackdown on ‘explosion’ of HMOs in Oldham
Councillors in Oldham are pushing for stricter regulations on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to require planning permission for any HMO, regardless of size. Currently, only HMOs with six or more bedrooms need permission. The motion, backed by the Oldham Labour group, aims to address concerns about the rapid increase in HMOs, which some argue exploit vulnerable residents and degrade community assets. A protest in Shaw highlighted local opposition to a proposed 22-bed HMO. The total number of HMOs in Oldham is unclear, with 307 registered but only 59 having required planning permission.
Five new flats rejected in Saddleworth
Plans to build a five-apartment block on Buckley Street in Uppermill, Saddleworth, have been rejected due to concerns over 'overdevelopment' and its incompatibility with the historic layout of neighbouring homes. Residents also raised fears about worsening parking congestion, though this was not a formal reason for rejection. The developers argued the location was sustainable with good bus links and minimal parking demand.
Will Greater Manchester councils introduce new policy when families get 'heartbreaking news'?
Manchester council has introduced a pioneering policy to exempt terminally ill residents from council tax if they have fewer than 12 months to live, aiming to reduce financial stress for affected families. Other Greater Manchester councils are considering similar measures, with responses ranging from exploring the idea to offering case-by-case support. The policy was developed in collaboration with charity Marie Curie, which hopes other councils will follow suit.
Council's free holiday activities to help families with high costs of living
Oldham Council is offering free holiday activities for children and families this summer, including dance, gymnastics, rugby, boxing, swimming, and acting, to help with the high cost of living and provide enriching experiences.
Hard work pays off: Oldham wins LGC Most Improved Council Award!
Oldham Council has won the LGC Most Improved Council Award 2025, recognising its transformation and progress through leadership, culture, and better outcomes. The award was celebrated by Cllr Arooj Shah and Chief Executive Shelley Kipling, who credited staff, councillors, and residents for their contributions.
Oldham welcomes new Mayor for 2025-26
Cllr Eddie Moores has been appointed as the new Mayor of Oldham for 2025-26, succeeding Cllr Zahid Chauhan. Moores, a long-serving councillor and former rail industry professional, will focus on fundraising for local charities and promoting community health and well-being during his term. Outgoing Mayor Chauhan was honored as an Honorary Freeman for his service.
Council reject application on greenbelt land
Oldham Council rejected an application by Root Power to build a green energy battery storage site on greenbelt land near Medlock Road, Failsworth, citing concerns over environmental and community impact despite the project's claimed benefits for renewable energy transition.
Dog fouling 'chaos' continues as Lib-Dems insist council has failed to issue any fines so far in 2025
Oldham Liberal Democrat Leader Councillor Howard Sykes MBE criticizes the Labour-led council for failing to issue any dog fouling fines in 2025, despite ongoing issues. The council responds by stating their focus is on higher-priority complaints like fly-tipping, and urges residents to report incidents.
Council issues statement after government update on grooming inquiry cash
Oldham Council's inquiry into local grooming gangs will proceed as planned despite changes in government funding allocation, which now requires councils to bid for a share of a £5m pot instead of automatic distribution. The inquiry, led by Tom Crowther KC, remains unaffected, but survivors and families express distress over the funding uncertainty.
Residents to protest HMOs as councillors call for tighter restrictions
Residents in Shaw, Oldham, are planning a peaceful protest against the increasing number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in their town, citing concerns over infrastructure strain and community deterioration. Local councillors are calling for tighter restrictions on HMOs, including mandatory planning permission for all such properties, and will vote on a motion to request government support for policy reform.
Councillor hits out at Oldham's fly-tipping scourge
Royton North Conservative councillor Lewis Quigg criticizes Oldham Council's handling of fly-tipping, calling for stricter penalties and enforcement. He highlights recurring issues in high-tenancy areas and private properties, suggesting the current system enables offenders.
Funding secured for new outdoor market
Oldham Council has secured £2m in funding to create a new outdoor market space on George Square, part of a wider scheme to revive Oldham’s markets. The project will transform George Square and is expected to be completed by late 2025. Half the funding comes from a government grant, while the other half is from Oldham’s capital spending. The new site will also host the popular Saturday Asian Market and other cultural events. While some traders and residents welcome the plans, others express concerns about the location. The previous plan to build a sixth form on the current outdoor market site is on hold.
Oldham considers introducing new bin charge
Oldham Council is considering introducing a £10 charge for replacement recycling bins (brown, blue, and green) to help address a £14m budget shortfall, while keeping grey bin replacement fees unchanged at £35. A final decision has been delayed for further consideration.
Woodhouses Village planning dispute due to receive final decision
A planning dispute in Woodhouses village regarding the construction of 41 new homes on Ashton Road will be decided on March 26. The development, proposed by Jones Homes, includes a mix of three and four-bedroom properties, with four designated for social housing. Residents have raised concerns about increased traffic and safety issues, while council officers recommend approval, citing lack of substantial grounds for refusal.
Council newspaper 'nobody wanted' is slammed
A Royton Councillor criticizes Oldham Council for spending £48,180 annually on a council newspaper, calling it wasteful and unnecessary, especially amid rising council taxes.
PSPO order to be kept in Failsworth
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) on Hampton Road in Failsworth will remain in place after residents, including Judith Tomlinson-Harrison, voiced concerns over safety and anti-social behaviour. The council initially considered removing the PSPO but reversed its decision after neighbours volunteered to manage the alley gates.
The ‘monstrous £5 million scheme’ that ‘no one wanted’
Plans for a £5 million 'Cyclops-style' junction at Shaw's Big Lamp Roundabout have been scrapped due to strong local opposition, with residents calling it a 'waste of money' and a threat to the area's last recognisable landmark.
How much council tax is going up in Oldham
Oldham Council has approved a 4.99% increase in council tax, alongside £8.7m in cuts, to address a £14m budget shortfall. The tax hike will affect all property bands, with Band A seeing a £77 annual increase and Band H a £232 increase. The budget includes slashing 120 jobs, restructuring services, and reducing adult social care funding. Opposition parties proposed alternative budgets, but Labour's plan was ultimately passed after a heated debate.
Council agency costs to 'considerably decrease in the next financial year'
Oldham Council has spent £56 million on agency workers since 2021, prompting criticism from the Liberal Democrats over recruitment and retention issues. The Labour-run council acknowledges the high costs but cites inflation, social care demand, and market conditions as contributing factors, while promising a reduction in agency costs next year.
Cabinet member responds to Lib-Dem homeless shelter claims
Liberal Democrat councillors in Oldham criticized the council for not using the empty civic tower building as temporary accommodation for homeless people, while the council defended its actions, stating ongoing support for rough sleepers and plans for the building's redevelopment.
Oldham votes to WITHDRAW from controversial Greater Manchester housing scheme… again
Oldham council has voted to withdraw from the Greater Manchester housing scheme, Places for Everyone (PfE), following intense debates. The decision requires council executives to write to the Secretary of State, Angela Rayner, to formalize the withdrawal. The scheme, which aims to build 170,000 homes across Greater Manchester, including 11,500 in Oldham, has faced opposition due to its inclusion of greenbelt land. Critics argue the plan prioritizes developer profits over local needs, while supporters warn that withdrawal could leave the borough without protections for greenbelt land and require additional housing developments.
Oldham town centre Post Office closure: Council must explore all options, insists Sykes
Oldham Liberal Democrat Leader Councillor Howard Sykes MBE has raised concerns about the impending closure of the Post Office at WH Smiths in Oldham town centre, urging the Council to explore alternatives to support residents, particularly older ones.
How much council tax will go up in Oldham - plus other changes
Oldham Council is increasing council tax by the maximum amount to address a £14m budget shortfall, despite receiving an additional £5m from the government. The increase will raise bills by £77 to £1,628 for the lowest tax band and £232 to £4,883 for the highest. Other measures include freezing waste collection charges but introducing a fee for recycling bin replacements, raising service charges by 4.5%, and cutting costs in social care and athletics facilities.
Why the mayoral element of your council tax bill is going up
The mayoral element of council tax in Greater Manchester will increase by £16 for Band D properties to fund the Bee Network and fire services, with lower-banded households paying less. The rise was delayed to align with the Bee Network's rollout. Fire services face budget cuts, requiring difficult decisions.
Emergency meeting called in Oldham over ‘controversial’ Greater Manchester housing scheme
The Oldham Liberal Democrats have called an emergency meeting to vote on withdrawing Oldham from the Greater Manchester housing scheme 'Places for Everyone', citing concerns over greenbelt land use and developer influence. The meeting follows a council dispute and will address housing, healthcare, and education priorities.
Oldham office block ‘likely to attract vandalism and anti-social behaviour’ could be demolished to make way for 140 homes
Oldham Council has re-approved plans to demolish the vacant Southlink office block, which is at risk of vandalism and anti-social behaviour, to make way for 140 affordable homes. The development, led by Vistry Partnership, will include low-carbon homes with energy-saving features like heat pumps and insulation.
The job with a £200k salary to lead Oldham through turbulent times
Oldham is searching for a new permanent chief executive with a salary up to £200k to lead the borough through rapid change, following Harry Catherall's departure to Tameside council. The role involves financial leadership, promoting Oldham, and emergency planning amid ongoing challenges like historic child sexual exploitation inquiries and a major regeneration project.
Town centre electric bin issue leads to piles of rubbish on pavements
Electric bins in Oldham town centre have malfunctioned, causing rubbish to accumulate on pavements. Councillor Louie Hamblett criticises the council's decision to purchase expensive, unreliable bins, while Councillor Chris Goodwin assures that repairs are underway and extra waste is being cleared.
Controversial plan for new homes behind an industrial warehouse branded ‘unsafe’
Plans for 17 new homes behind an industrial warehouse in Mossley were rejected by Tameside Council due to safety concerns, poor living standards, and potential contamination risks.
Mayor plans to raise police tax by £14
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham plans to increase the police element of council tax by £14 for band D properties, citing the need to maintain improvements in Greater Manchester Police (GMP). Band B properties will see a £10.89 rise, pushing their annual police precept over £200 for the first time. Burnham highlights GMP's progress, including faster 999 responses and a 17% reduction in neighbourhood crime, but acknowledges ongoing challenges. The force exited special measures in 2022 but faced criticism over unlawful strip searches under both current and former leadership.
Police turn up at Oldham Council after explosive argument in chambers and ‘Nazi’ insults
Police were called to an Oldham Council meeting after a heated argument involving councillors and the public, leading to adjournment and physical altercations. The dispute centered around the 'Places for Everyone' housing scheme, with insults like 'Nazi sympathisers' being thrown. A Conservative councillor quit his party during the conflict, and the meeting was ultimately suspended.
Oldham faces crushing £20m budget blackhole
Oldham Council is facing a £20.4m budget overspend due to rising costs in adult social care, children's services, and temporary accommodation. Councillors have appealed to the government for additional funding ahead of a settlement announcement, warning of potential financial collapse if reserves are depleted.
Group of neighbours left enraged after planning meeting - but council says the change is ‘desperately needed’
Oldham Council approved a controversial new children's home in Shaw despite strong opposition from over 50 neighbours, who raised concerns about traffic issues, parking shortages, and potential antisocial behaviour. The home, managed by Safe Hands, will house three children with emotional needs. Councillors noted the approval was legally required, and the home was approved with conditions to address parking concerns.
‘Badly worded’ motion leaves councillors furious as they vote to ‘not not’ take action
A poorly worded motion at Oldham town hall led to confusion, with councillors mistakenly voting against withdrawing from the controversial Places for Everyone housing scheme, believing they were voting in favor. The motion's wording resulted in a 'not not' vote, prompting outrage among opposition councillors. A new motion will be required to clarify the council's stance.
Two Oldham council directors to leave town hall
Two Oldham council directors, Sarah Johnston (Finance) and Paul Clifford (Economics), are leaving their positions to be closer to home. Johnston will move to Wigan council after completing budget work, while Clifford returns to Barnsley council. Their departures follow a leadership shake-up, including the recent exit of Oldham's chief executive Harry Catherall to Tameside council. Replacements have not yet been appointed.
Community spaces to benefit from improvements worth more than £80,000
Oldham Council has secured over £80,000 in funding to refurbish three community spaces: Royton Park, Shaw Memorial Gardens, and the Rochdale Canal towpath in Failsworth. Improvements include a new sensory play space, bench refurbishments, path upgrades, and environmental enhancements like floating habitat islands and a Failsworth Fruit Route. The council also plans paddle board litter picks as part of the Don’t Trash Oldham campaign.