Oldham Coliseum’s restoration is officially underway after contractors completed crucial preparatory work inside the 139-year-old theatre, clearing the path for a £10 million refurbishment that will return the beloved venue to audiences by pantomime season 2025.

The Fairbottom Street landmark has sat dark since March 2023, when Arts Council England withdrew its funding and forced the closure of the historic playhouse. D Hughes Demolition carefully cleared the way inside the building over recent weeks, with construction firm Tilbury Douglas now poised to begin the extensive renovation work that will address structural issues, remove remaining asbestos, upgrade heating and lighting systems, and improve backstage accessibility for wheelchair users.

The community victory follows fierce opposition to initial council proposals for a smaller, modern replacement that would have eliminated the Coliseum’s famous pantomime tradition. The local authority ultimately committed the full restoration funding—£6 million from the Towns Fund and the remainder from the council’s regeneration budget—after the Save the Coliseum campaign, led by Oldham-born actor Julie Hesmondhalgh and screenwriter Ian Kershaw, rallied widespread support.

“I’m over the moon that this amazing building will live on for future generations,” said Hesmondhalgh, who starred in Mr Bates vs the Post Office. “This is amazing news which I know will bring huge excitement to people across the UK. That is the significance of Oldham Coliseum - it’s not just a theatre in Oldham - it’s a place of history, memories and huge pride.”

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