“People can expect a complete change in direction”: Oldham Liberal Democrats submit response to Local Plan review 2024

Oldham Councils’ Liberal Democrat Opposition Group have submitted their written response to Oldham Councils’ Local Plan Review 2024.  The Local Plan is the document that guides Council decision making on development.  The latest refresh of the policy will shape regeneration projects across Oldham until 2039. 

Liberal Democrat Group Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE said, “The Liberal Democrats fundamentally disagree with the direction that Oldham Labour are taking our Borough in.”

“Under Labour, when it comes to development the Council is putting all its eggs in Andy Burnham’s basket.  Oldham Labour are committed to delivering the Manchester Mayors’ flagship ‘Places for Everyone’ housing scheme, which should really be called ‘Palaces for everyone’.  The Liberal Democrats have always said that this scheme will deliver the wrong homes in the wrong place for our Borough at the expense of our local Green Belt sites.  We will not see any of the new investment in local services, schools and amenities that we need across all corners of the Borough.” 

“It’s clear from the Councils’ latest draft of the Local Plan, that the obsession with Oldham Town Centre will continue; and that districts like Shaw, Crompton, Lees, Saddleworth and its villages and elsewhere will continue to go neglected.”

“Under the Liberal Democrats, people can expect a complete change of direction.  A focus on all of Oldham Borough with ambitious plans for ‘Brownfield First’ affordable housing, investments in safer active travel and public transport; and a clear-cut plans to bring employment, opportunity and skills to the area.”