Council to discuss next phase of Oldham Old Library rebuild

Oldham’s Old Library has been under construction since December 2021.

Work began on the Grade-II listed building on Union Street in a bid to restore it back to its former glory for locals to enjoy. 

The transformation of the historic building is well underway but now Oldham Council Cabinet is due to approve the next phase of works on Monday, July 25.

The restoration project includes replacing the building’s roof while using the original tiles as much as possible.

This requires carefully cleaning the stone to bring it back to its original state as close as possible while preserving its historical features, many of which have been rediscovered during the works.

Cllr Amanda Chadderton at the site.

The Old Library is set out over a number of floors and as part of the reconstruction project will finally be made accessible to all users once it is reopened to the public.

Meanwhile, the ground floor will be designed with a community space in mind, with public meeting rooms available for community groups to use for arts, culture and performances.

Oldham Theatre Workshop will be given a new home in the Old Library as their current building will be redeveloped into a new theatre and performance space.

A space for art exhibitions and a gallery is also on the cards on the upper floor which currently connects to Gallery Oldham via a link bridge while a new civic space for public meetings and functions will take place upstairs, including a new council chamber, mayoral chamber and space for support staff.

Oldham Old Library is a grade II listed building with rich history.

The Council said it plans to celebrate the Old Library’s rich heritage by displaying civic artefacts and silverware which date back hundreds of years in the new building – many of which are currently housed in the Civic Centre.

The Cabinet is recommended to proceed to the next stage of project development which will allow the Old Library’s refurbishment to continue in line with its completion date of 2024.

Oldham Council leader Amanda Chadderton said: “The Old Library is a much-loved building, and many residents have fond memories of visiting it with their families over the years. 

“We have always been committed to re-opening it for public use and the current works are well on their way to making that happen. 

“As part of the Big Oldham Conversation consultation, we asked residents how they would like to use the building in the future and received some great responses including community use, an extension of Gallery Oldham and a place that celebrates Oldham’s heritage and history. 

“We’ve taken all this into account and have worked up plans to incorporate your feedback and ideas.”