Lib Dem Councillors Clash with Oldham Council Over Empty Civic Tower Homeless Shelter Proposal

Two Liberal Democrat councillors have criticised Oldham Council for refusing to open the empty civic tower to homeless people camping outside, as temperatures drop across Greater Manchester.

Councillor Garth Harkness, Shadow Cabinet Member for Decent Homes, revealed he had formally asked the administration to use vacant sections of the former council headquarters for temporary accommodation. “The council’s response has been a flat ‘no’ and an officer has written a complex reason as to why they couldn’t do it,” Harkness stated. “This flies in the face of tax payers who are effectively paying to heat an empty space that could be put to good use and yet they are also being hit in the pocket twice, paying for hotels for temporary accommodation.”

Councillor Louie Hamblett, Shadow Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, expressed particular concern for rough sleepers’ welfare. “I hope that any help is being offered a real and sensible solution would to use the parts of the civic building that is empty and teams can look after them and check up on their welfare,” Hamblett said.

Deputy Leader Councillor Elaine Taylor defended the council’s position, stating the building has been decommissioned as part of plans to develop much-needed town centre housing with partner MUSE. “Maybe if the Liberal Democrats had got in touch with officers in our housing service before issuing a press release they’d know that our rough sleeping team have been in regular contact with these individuals and continue to offer them support, guidance and assistance,” Taylor countered. She added that the council continues exploring options for temporary accommodation using other buildings within its estates portfolio.

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