Another step forward with enabling works completed on the Former Leisure Centre site

Progress in transforming Oldham town centre continues with Muse having now successfully completed the enabling works at the site of the former Leisure Centre, ensuring the site is ready for future development.

The site sits within the Oldham Town Centre Development Framework, which comprises of a number of opportunity sites within the town centre that are being developed as part of the 15-year partnership between Muse and Oldham Council. This will see up to 2,000 new homes delivered within the town centre.

Muse, working with Oldham based contractor Rowan Ashworth Ltd, has now completed the works to remove redundant services and improve the quality of the ground within the site, creating the development platform for future construction.

With the enabling works complete and until the main construction activity commences, the site can now be used for other temporary uses in the meantime.

Alex Vogel, Senior Development Manager at Muse

“Readying the site for future construction was our priority as we removed legacy foundations and redundant services as part of our enabling works at the former Leisure Centre site.

Now that these works have been successfully completed, we are pleased to able to return the site to Oldham Council to support their projects whilst we progress with the planning application and the wider regeneration plans.”

A planning application to secure the long-term plans for the site was submitted to Oldham Council at the end of March 2025, and includes a residential-led development of up to 231 new homes. The development could also see ground floor commercial uses such as retail, a café, gym, or food and beverage space.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council

“We’re incredibly excited to see our ambitious Building a Better Oldham plans for the town centre moving forward.

“The work Muse has completed at the former Leisure Centre site marks another important step in Oldham’s journey.

“Over the next few years, we’ll see a new 5.7acre park and social and affordable homes built on this site – creating a thriving, vibrant community in the heart of Oldham.”

“Alongside the new market and events space, and recently opened Egyptian Room, this is a big step towards improving Oldham as a place to live, work and visit.”

Further details on the partnership’s plans for Oldham Town Centre can be found at oldhamtownliving.co.uk.