Oldham prepares to clear Mumps buildings

THE demolition of a number of properties on the edge of Oldham will start next week in a bid to improve the approach to the town centre.

The buildings, part of a larger portfolio acquired by the council from a receiver, were all derelict apart from 155 Yorkshire Street, the former home of Andy’s Autoparts.

The include the building next to Andy’s which used to be the Shoelines shoe shop, and its neighbour, the former Oldham Hotel. The work is expected to last up to eight weeks.

The council said further demolition will take place early next year and the cleared site will be used to contribute to future redevelopment plans in the area. The work is being carried out by Oldham-based D Hughes Demolition following a competitive tender.

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, cabinet member for business and town centres, said: “This demolition work is a welcome and important milestone in the redevelopment of Mumps. These properties have been empty and some of them have become eyesores so by levelling them we are improving the look of the area in time for the arrival of Metrolink through the town centre. Once clearance work is completed it will allow us to look into regeneration opportunities.”

The properties being demolished are: 155 Yorkshire Street (formerly Andy’s Autos); 157-159 Yorkshire Street (formerly Shoelines); 1 Mumps (formerly Oldham Hotel); 29/31 Mumps (formerly Regent Stores); Former commercial properties at Regent Street/Partington Street junction.

Right, the Oldham Hotel in better days.