A new branch of Grandpa Greene’s Ice Cream is opening today.

The location opens in the former public toilet block on the edge of Uppermill Park, having previously opened for takeaway only.

Now, the restaurant is opening its doors for those looking to sit inside. The restaurant will be able to accommodate 44 people.

UPDATE: New Oldham ice cream restaurant opening delayed

The planning application had caused controversy earlier this year, when residents raised concerns over the venue’s application for an alcohol licence.

Some residents were worried about the effect of serving alcohol within the playing fields.

Ultimately, the terms were approved and the venue will be allowed to serve alcohol from 11am to 7pm from Monday to Sunday.

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The company has insisted alcohol will only be served inside and with food, such as Prosecco with afternoon tea, and that no alcohol will be allowed to be taken off-site.

Oldham Times reporter Imogen Clyde-Smith has already visited the new location ahead of its full opening.

In her review, she tried sweet and savoury food available to takeaway.

Local residents seemed positive about the new development, though concerns were shared over the effect of the development on the local ice cream van, and one resident didn’t’ like how the restaurant would ‘encroach’ on the green.

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Ange, who works at the ice cream van based in Uppermill Park and did not wish to give her last name, said: “The van has been here about 30 years. We’re not worried, people want different things.

“Some people want a traditional ice cream van, and some want something posh. I don’t think it’s going to affect us, and I think there’s enough space here at the park for everybody.”