Oldham’s diverse communities have undergone a considerable amount of negative media coverage in recent years due to racial tension and a lack of community cohesion. Combined with decades of industrial decline, it was obvious that a highly focused strategy was needed to effect and upturn in the social and economic fortunes of the area.

Following the Oldham Independent Review the decision was taken to continue the momentum that had already been achieved by many individual partners working with the borough and develop a strategy for achieving long term, sustainable regeneration for the whole area.

Oldham’s diverse communities have undergone a considerable amount of negative media coverage in recent years due to racial tension and a lack of community cohesion. Combined with decades of industrial decline, it was obvious that a highly focused strategy was needed to effect and upturn in the social and economic fortunes of the area.

Following the Oldham Independent Review the decision was taken to continue the momentum that had already been achieved by many individual partners working with the borough and develop a strategy for achieving long term, sustainable regeneration for the whole area.

A dedicated team took the best regeneration ideas from the UK and internationally. A massive consultation exercise across the borough brought together local knowledge, ideas, concerns and aspirations to create a masterplan to improve the life experience and unity of Oldham’s communities.

The extensive research matched regeneration concepts against the potential restraints offered by Oldham itself to draw up a masterplan. Extensive consultation with all sectors of the community then followed and, in order to ensure the various groups were fully engaged, the team used a mobile ‘thought bubble’ - a highly visible and unique tactic to encourage opinions.

The published plan has won the praise and support of citizens and the local media – which has encouraged locals to ‘back the vision’. Oldham now has a plan that with the potential to see the borough’s fortunes reversed and a return of civic pride within the area. The next stage is to convert vision into delivery.

A team able to bring together the best regeneration ideas from the UK and beyond was successful.

Leadership was through inspirational long-term vision for economic, environmental, cultural and social renaissance whilst acknowledging challenges. Community & business involvement built pride and ownership through consultation.

The community and the environment

Budget: £277,290

Oldham MBC
sara.hewitt@oldham.gov.uk

//2005

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Mediation, Citizens' participation