Oldham Coliseum moves a step closer to reopening after major refurbishment update

Oldham Coliseum has moved a step closer to its much-anticipated reopening following the appointment of a Heritage contractor to lead the venue’s refurbishment.

Tilbury Douglas, who are already transforming the historic Old Library in Oldham, have been tasked with breathing new life into the beloved Fairbottom Street theatre.

With preparatory works almost complete, Oldham Council will now work in partnership with Tilbury Douglas to draw up detailed plans for the restoration and refurbishment.

The council has committed £10 million to the project, supported by £6.1m from the Towns Fund and the remainder from Oldham Council’s regeneration budget.

Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “I’m so excited for the future of Oldham Coliseum – this is a huge milestone.

“Tilbury Douglas have a fantastic track record of delivering amazing buildings in our borough and I have no doubt that they will do the same for the Coliseum.

“The whole team shares our ambition to make Oldham a brilliant place to live, work and visit and I can’t wait for them to get started.

“Just a few months ago I stood outside the Coliseum and announced that I had listened to the community and decided we would invest in the building to get it re-opened in time for Panto 2025.

“Since then we’ve been hard at work preparing the theatre for its refurbishment. Huge thanks to D Hughes Demolition, an Oldham company, who have carefully carried out these works with great care for the building.

“I’m delighted that our plans are now coming to life and by next Christmas, the Coliseum will be back. I’m sure many people, like me, can’t wait to see the theatre come alive once again.”

Martina Murphy, Chair of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, said: “What a journey the last few years have been and to see the theatre in Fairbottom Street being brought back to life.

“Like so many of us in Oldham, Oldham Coliseum Theatre was my first experience of theatre and it’s truly exciting that future generations of Oldhamers will be able to do the same.

“People living in our town deserve to see their stories reflected on and off the stage and we’re honoured to be working with such supportive partners and funders, as we continue to reimagine theatre in Oldham and its potential to help regenerate the town centre and reach more people than ever before.”