Next steps for Muse’s 2,000-home Oldham revival

The developer and Oldham Council have finalised proposals and submitted plans to regenerate the town centre based on principles set out in the Oldham Town Living Development Framework.

Six sites are earmarked for housing: Princes Gate, the Civic Centre, the Civic Tower, the former Magistrates Court, Manchester Chambers, and the old Leisure Centre site.

A public consultation period, which began in February, has now ended – the applications’ submission to Oldham Council marks the next step forward for the revitalisation project.

The site could host 331 homes. Credit: via Oldham Council/Muse

Princes Gate: Considered a key gateway to Oldham, Lidl and M&S previously courted the three-acre site, but now consent is sought for 331 homes across three blocks, a development which could rise to 16 storeys at its peak.

The scheme would offer 159 one-bed, 141 two-bed, and 31 three-bed apartments.

Around 1,400 sq ft of ground floor commercial space to activate the surrounding streets has also been proposed, as well as car parking for up to 262 vehicles.

• Application reference number: 354326

The former court building could be transformed into apartments. Credit: via Oldham Council/Muse

Former Magistrates Court: Outline plans for 219 apartments would see two blocks rise from the two-acre site that has been vacant since the court was demolished in 2019.

The blocks would range in height from eight to 11 storeys, hosting 103 and 116 apartments each.

Proposals indicate a housing mix of 94 one-, 108 two-, and 17 three-bed flats.

• Application reference number: 354323

Around 18,300 sq ft of existing buildings are to be demolished. Credit: via Oldham Council/Muse

Former Manchester Chambers: A refurbishment of the site into commercial, office, and public realm has been put forward.

The ground floor could host retail, café, a gym, or F&B offers. Offices would occupy the upper floors, and pedestrian access would be widened.

Around 18,300 sq ft of existing buildings are to be demolished to then be replaced across two development plots totalling 16,700 sq ft of floorspace.

Public realm improvements are also expected – Manchester Chambers would be connected to King Street via planted steps and terraces.

• Application reference number: 354325

Varying heights are floated for the civic centre residential offer. Credit: Oldham Council/Muse

The Civic Centre: The current plans propose up to 838 homes with a mix of residential units and commercial spaces on the ground floor.

Full planning permission is sought for six-storey Block A, comprising 93 flats, split across 35 one-, 52 two-, and 6 three-bed apartments.

In addition, Muse is seeking outline consent for a 745-home development of five buildings, varying in height from 11 to 16 storeys.

The proposed residential mix is 316 one-, 317 two-, and 58 three-bedroom apartments.

Up to 4,100 sq ft of commercial or educational space is included in the application, as well as parking provision for up to 24 cars.

The demolition of existing buildings will be required to make way for the developments.

• Application reference number: 354338

Ideas for a hotel at the tower have been floated. Credit: via Oldham Council/Muse

The Civic Tower: A change of use application has been submitted to repurpose the Civic Tower into a commercial space.

Offering almost 84,500 sq ft of space across 16 storeys, the tower could host a 126-room hotel.

No external works are part of the application.

• Application reference number: 354322

Public realm improvements are integral to all six sites. Credit: via Oldham Council/Muse

Former Leisure Centre: The site could see 270 built alongside mixed-use elements in the form of community facilities or commercial offers.

The proposals indicate two blocks, one hosting 103 homes and the other 116.

A housing mix of 94 one-, 108 two-, and 17 three-bed flats would be on offer.

The creation of an enhanced public realm would also be undertaken.

• Application reference number: 354324

Alex Vogel, senior development manager at Muse, said: “Since the public consultation, we have carefully considered feedback from the community and wider stakeholders to shape our proposals so that they create an exciting and inclusive future for everybody in Oldham.

“We’re excited to be in the position where our plans have now been submitted, and we move forward to the next phase of the project.”

Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, added: “These applications reflect the ambition we have for our town centre, bringing forward high-quality homes and new spaces that people can be proud of.

“We’ve taken the time to listen to the community, ensuring these plans reflect their needs and aspirations.

“Now, as we take the next step in this journey, we remain committed to delivering a town centre that works for everyone.”