Oldham's Alt neighbourhood to receive £20m funding boost

The Alt neighbourhood in Oldham is set to receive up to £20 million in government funding over the next decade as part of the Pride in Place scheme. This investment will give local residents direct control over how money is spent in their area, with decisions shaped by those who know the community best rather than being imposed from Westminster.

Communities Secretary Steve Reed announced that Alt is among 40 new neighbourhoods joining the initiative, bringing the total to 284 communities across the UK where local people decide how investment is used. The funding aims to address the sense of disconnection many feel in their communities by putting tools and money directly in residents' hands.

Oldham Council leader Cllr Arooj Shah welcomed the investment as 'a huge vote of confidence in Oldham and our communities.' She emphasised that by giving local people deciding power, projects will be shaped by those who know the borough best-our residents and communities.

The funding will support both high streets and neighbourhoods, helping to create places that people are proud to call home while supporting small businesses to thrive. Local councillors Zaheer Ali, Dr Zahid Chauhan and Shaid Mushtaq were approached for comment but had not responded at time of publication.