The latest news in Oldham for 2026 is dominated by the massive £285 million “Building a Better Oldham” regeneration project, which includes the relocation of the historic Tommyfield Market into the Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre and the development of the new six-acre Tommyfield Park. Residents are currently navigating a significant shift in local services as Oldham Council has implemented a 10% increase across nearly 900 service fees—including wedding ceremonies and cemetery costs—to bridge a £20 million budget gap for the 2026/27 financial year. On the sporting front, Oldham Athletic AFC is enjoying a resurgence in EFL League Two following their promotion, with ambitious plans for a £70 million “SportsTown” campus at Boundary Park now officially underway.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the major infrastructure changes transforming the town center, the latest community initiatives like the National Year of Reading, and practical information for residents and visitors regarding transport, costs, and local governance. Whether you are looking for updates on the Oldham Coliseum reopening or the latest crime and safety measures, this article provides an authoritative deep dive into everything happening across the borough in 2026.
Major Town Center Regeneration Progress
The transformation of Oldham town center has reached a critical milestone in January 2026 with the nearing completion of the Spindles Town Square redevelopment. This project, spearheaded by Oldham Council after purchasing the site in 2020, has successfully converted the upper floors of the shopping mall into a massive workspace and enterprise hub known as “The Hive.”
The “Retail Loop” concept is now fully operational, condensing high-street shops into the ground floor to create a more vibrant and walkable shopping experience. This move has been designed to reduce vacancy rates and consolidate the commercial heart of the town, allowing for higher footfall and better accessibility for those using public transport at the nearby Oldham Central tram stop.
New Tommyfield Market Relocation News
One of the most significant headlines for early 2026 is the official transition of Tommyfield Market traders from their historic 230-year-old home into the purpose-built market hall within Spindles. The new market features a split-level design, with traditional stalls located at mall level and a contemporary food and drink court on the lower level that connects directly to Parliament Square.
The council delayed the move until January 2026 to ensure that local traders could capitalize on the busy 2025 Christmas period before relocating during the quieter New Year weeks. This new facility is expected to act as a major anchor for the town center, combining the heritage of the traditional market with modern amenities and improved facilities for both shoppers and vendors.
Tommyfield Park Development Milestones
Construction is now in full swing for Tommyfield Park, a new six-acre green space located between St Mary’s Way and Henshaw Street in the heart of the town. This project represents a “green lung” for the urban center, featuring landscaped gardens, sustainable drainage systems, and new pedestrian-friendly pathways that connect different parts of the borough.
As of early 2026, the first phases of the park, including the pockets of greenery near Rock Street, have been opened to the public. Once the old market building is fully demolished later this year, the remaining land will be transformed into community event spaces and play areas, significantly increasing the biodiversity of the town center.
Oldham Council 2026 Budget Updates
Residents are currently adjusting to the 2026/27 budget proposals, which include a widespread increase in service charges to address a substantial funding shortfall. Nearly 900 different fees have risen, with standard increases of 10% applied to services such as pest control, new bins, and car parking, while some specialized services have seen even higher jumps.
Notably, the cost of a Sunday wedding ceremony at Chadderton Town Hall has risen to £663, and standard grave plots have increased by over £100 to a total of £1,270. These measures, described by council leaders as necessary to bring Oldham in line with other Greater Manchester boroughs, are intended to protect core frontline services from further cuts.
SportsTown and Boundary Park Expansion
The ambitious £70 million SportsTown project at Boundary Park is making visible progress, with the goal of turning the area into a premier multi-discipline sporting and education campus. Current works involve the replacement of the “Little Wembley” training pitch and the development of new facilities for netball, basketball, and cricket.
Darren Royle, CEO of Oldham Athletic, has shared a vision for a 3,000-seat indoor sporting arena that would host professional wheelchair rugby and basketball matches. This development is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors a week to the borough, providing a significant boost to the local economy and youth engagement programs.
Oldham Athletic AFC League Performance
Oldham Athletic is currently competing in EFL League Two for the 2025/26 season, marking a triumphant return to the Football League after their successful promotion campaign last year. Under the management of Micky Mellon and the ownership of Frank Rothwell, the club has seen a massive surge in attendance and community support.
Recent matches at Boundary Park have seen the Latics maintaining a competitive position in the mid-table, with key signings like Kane Drummond and Donervon Daniels playing pivotal roles. Fans are optimistic about a potential push for the play-offs, fueled by the stability brought to the club following years of uncertainty in the National League.
Oldham Coliseum Theatre Reopening Plans
The cultural landscape of Oldham is set for a major boost as the Oldham Coliseum is scheduled to reopen its doors at the Fairbottom Street site in 2026. Following a successful £10 million redevelopment contract award to Tilbury Douglas, the historic building is undergoing extensive renovations to modernize its facilities while preserving its heritage.
The council has also utilized a £1 million regeneration fund to purchase Harry’s Bar, located nearby, which will serve as an ancillary space for the theater’s operations. This reopening is a key part of the “Cultural Quarter” strategy, which aims to make Oldham a leading destination for the arts in Greater Manchester.
National Year of Reading Initiatives
Oldham is taking a leading role in the 2026 National Year of Reading, with local libraries launching a series of events to encourage residents to rediscover the joy of books. The initiative, led by the National Literacy Trust, includes author talks, World Book Night celebrations, and the popular Summer Reading Challenge.
Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, Cllr Peter Dean, has urged residents to visit one of the borough’s 12 libraries, including the award-winning Oldham Central Library. New community programs like “Knit and Natter” and “Brews, Biscuits and Banter” are being expanded to turn libraries into social hubs for all age groups.
Northern Roots Urban Farm Progress
Work is progressing steadily at Northern Roots, which is set to become the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park located on the 160-acre site adjacent to Alexandra Park. For 2026, the focus is on completing the new Visitor Centre, which will feature a cafe, a forestry skills center, and classroom spaces for environmental education.
This project is a cornerstone of Oldham’s “Green New Deal,” aiming to provide sustainable jobs and training opportunities in the green economy. Residents can already access many of the walking trails, and the upcoming opening of the skills center is expected to draw interest from across the country.
Local Business Support and Grants
Oldham Council recently awarded £266,000 in grants to twenty-five local businesses to help improve shop fronts and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the town center. This funding is part of a broader effort to support independent retailers as they adapt to the changes brought about by the Spindles redevelopment.
Businesses in the borough are also benefiting from the Get Oldham Working initiative, which recently won a national award for its tailored employment support. These programs are designed to reduce unemployment and ensure that the benefits of the town’s regeneration are felt by local workers and entrepreneurs.
Housing Developments at Prince’s Gate
The long-awaited housing project at Prince’s Gate in Mumps is finally taking shape, with construction well underway on three blocks that will provide 331 new homes. Supported by £31.5 million from the GMCA, this development includes a mix of 75 social rent apartments and 256 build-to-rent units.
This site, which saw various failed deals over the past decade, is now a symbol of the borough’s commitment to delivering high-quality urban living. The location’s proximity to the Mumps Metrolink station makes it a prime spot for commuters and young professionals looking for affordable housing options in Greater Manchester.
Education and SEND Provision Improvements
Oldham is investing heavily in its educational infrastructure, with a particular focus on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). A new modular building project at Yew Tree Community School in Chadderton is expanding access for children with complex communication and interaction needs.
This £650,000 project will provide four new classrooms and specialized intervention rooms, allowing more children to receive high-quality support within their local community. These improvements are part of a borough-wide strategy to ensure that no child is left behind as the town’s economy and infrastructure evolve.
Crime Prevention and Safety Measures
Ensuring a safe environment for shoppers and residents remains a top priority for the Oldham Police and the council. Throughout the winter and into early 2026, there has been an increased police presence in the town center to deter anti-social behavior and support retailers during the transition to the new market.
New CCTV upgrades and improved street lighting around Parliament Square and the Spindles car parks have been implemented as part of the “Safer Streets” initiative. Local authorities are also working closely with night-time economy businesses to ensure that the reopening of the Coliseum and the new food hall are supported by robust safety protocols.
Fostering and Community Outreach
The council has launched the pioneering “Stepping Forward” fostering campaign in 2026, aimed at moving children from residential care into loving foster homes. This initiative provides enhanced support and training for foster carers, recognizing the vital role they play in the lives of the borough’s most vulnerable young people.
Community events, such as the Chadderton Town Hall Wedding Fair, are being used to engage with residents and showcase the civic facilities available to them. These outreach efforts are designed to foster a sense of pride and belonging in Oldham as it undergoes its most significant period of change in decades.
Transportation and Infrastructure Upgrades
Navigating Oldham in 2026 has been made easier through various infrastructure improvements, including better cycling paths and pedestrian routes. The “Getting Around” scheme has focused on improving the links between the Metrolink stations and the new regeneration sites like Tommyfield Park and Spindles.
Motorists are reminded that some matchday route closures are in place near Boundary Park due to the SportsTown construction, and car parking fees have risen slightly as part of the 2026 budget. However, the introduction of a new retail loop has improved the overall flow of movement for those visiting the town center for shopping or leisure.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours and Key Dates
- Spindles Town Square: Generally open 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday to Saturday), 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Sunday).
- New Tommyfield Market: Trading typically begins at 9:00 AM, with the food hall staying open later into the evening.
- Oldham Libraries: Varying hours; the Central Library is open until 8:00 PM on most weekdays.
Prices and Costs
- Metrolink: Standard Zone 2/3 fares apply; use contactless for the “Bee Network” price cap.
- Parking: Fees in council-owned car parks have increased by approximately 10% for 2026.
- Events: Many National Year of Reading events are free, though some author talks may require a nominal fee.
How to Get There
Oldham is highly accessible via the Manchester Metrolink (Pink Line), with several stops including Oldham King Street, Central, and Mumps. For those driving, the town is well-connected to the M60 and M62 motorways, though construction around Junction 22 (Hollinwood) for new warehousing projects may cause occasional delays.
Tips for Visitors
- Explore the New Park: Visit the completed sections of Tommyfield Park for a quiet break during your shopping trip.
- Support Local: Check out the new food hall in the Spindles for unique local cuisines and craft drinks.
- Stay Informed: Follow the Oldham Council social media pages for real-time updates on roadworks and event schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest news in Oldham for 2026? The biggest news is the completion of the £285 million regeneration project, including the relocation of Tommyfield Market into the Spindles Shopping Centre and the opening of the new Tommyfield Park.
Is the Oldham Coliseum open yet? The Oldham Coliseum is scheduled to officially reopen in 2026 following a £10 million renovation project to modernize the historic building on Fairbottom Street.
How much have council fees increased in Oldham? Most council service fees and charges have increased by 10% for the 2026/27 financial year, including costs for bins, car parking, and weddings, to help bridge a £20 million budget gap.
What division is Oldham Athletic in for the 2025/26 season? Oldham Athletic AFC is currently competing in EFL League Two following their promotion from the National League in 2025.
What is happening with Tommyfield Market? The market has moved into a brand-new, purpose-built facility inside the Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre, featuring a dedicated food and drink hall and modern stalls.
What is “SportsTown” in Oldham? SportsTown is a £70 million project at Boundary Park aimed at creating a world-class sports, education, and health campus, including a new 3,000-seat arena.
Are there any new parks in Oldham town center? Yes, the six-acre Tommyfield Park is currently being developed in the town center, providing a major new green space for residents and visitors.
What is the “National Year of Reading” in Oldham? Oldham is participating in this 2026 national initiative by hosting a year-long program of events in its 12 libraries to promote literacy and community engagement.
Where can I find the new “The Hive” workspace? The Hive is a new co-working space for entrepreneurs located on the upper floor of the Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre.
Is the Northern Roots urban farm open? Sections of Northern Roots are open for walking and exploring, with the new Visitor Centre and forestry skills center due to be fully operational later in 2026.
How do I get to Oldham town center via public transport? The easiest way is via the Manchester Metrolink, with the Oldham Central and Oldham King Street stops providing direct access to the regeneration zones.
What are the new housing projects at Prince’s Gate? Prince’s Gate at Mumps is a major development providing 331 new homes, including social rent and build-to-rent apartments, near the Mumps tram stop.
Who is the current leader of Oldham Council? Cllr Arooj Shah is the current Leader of Oldham Council, overseeing the town’s major regeneration and economic recovery plans.
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