Morgan Sindall to transform Oldham’s old town hall

MORGAN Sindall has won the contract to transform Oldham’s old town hall into a six-screen cinema and restaurants.

The council said the construction group was one of around a hundred respondents – later shortlisted to six – after it invited expressions of interest in the project earlier this year.

Initial work will see contractors on-site carrying out pre-construction and enabling works to the shell and core of the building.

The fabric of the venue will be surveyed and the façade of the building will be secured along with other parts of the building such as the Egyptian Room and courtrooms.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “Today marks the start of the physical work that will see this amazing building returned to use. The Old Town Hall is a fantastic regeneration project – rescuing an important and historic building that was at risk of being lost forever and using it to spark economic growth and provide the amenities we need.

“Our vision was backed by English Heritage and the public whose consultation responses showed they share our passion to make this happen. The work starting from today will restore the Old Town Hall as a symbol of civic pride and give Oldham the cinema and family entertainment venue it deserves.”

Barry Roberts, area director for Morgan Sindall, said: “This is an exciting and ambitious project to be a part of and we’re looking forward to getting started. It’s encouraging to see the Old Town Hall being brought back into use through this inventive, resourceful scheme.”

The town hall was built in 1841 but has been closed since the mid-1990s. The plans were drawn up by Manchester-based BDP.