Oldham Council awards £266,000 to boost town centre businesses

Oldham Council has awarded £266,000 in grants to 25 local businesses to improve their shop fronts across the town centre. The funding, which comes from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority's Local Growth Programme, targets areas including Union Street, Yorkshire Street, Henshaw Street and George Street.

Leader Cllr Arooj Shah met with grant recipients to celebrate the investment, including service users from Pennine Mencap, a charity supporting adults with learning disabilities. The scheme aims to create a more welcoming environment for shoppers and visitors while boosting confidence among independent businesses.

The grants will fund improvements ranging from dental practices and chiropractic clinics to retail stores, restaurants and charity offices. Recipients include Bargains 4 Less, Charcoal Grill, HFC, Janni Boutique, and Tommyfield Super Store among others.

Cllr Shah described the investment as 'another exciting step forward' in transforming Oldham's high streets. The funding represents a partnership between the council and business community to enhance the town centre's appearance and create a more engaging shopping experience for residents and visitors alike.