Oldham Eton-backed school land transfer terms unclear

A row has erupted over plans to hand over Tommyfield Market in Oldham town centre to Eton College for a new academy, with the Liberal Democrats claiming no formal agreement exists despite the council leader saying contracts are signed.

The controversial proposal would see the current market site given to the elite private school to create an 'Eton Star Academy' aimed at recruiting talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Councillor Helen Bishop said the project is a 'white elephant' and questioned why Eton isn't supporting existing schools instead. 'If this is so good, why has no-one stood up in the Council Chamber with a clear explanation of what is happening, and how it will work?

Council leader Arooj Shah defended the plans, saying it's standard practice not to have finalised agreements at this stage of major projects. She claims the academy will 'bring a world-class academic institution right into the heart of Oldham' without undermining existing provision.

The National Education Union's Oldham branch previously called the scheme a 'marketing ploy' that would harm sixth form education. Critics argue the prime town centre site could be better used for retail, leisure or hospitality development instead.