Royton town hall and library reopens after major restoration

Royton Town Hall was opened as a dedicated municipal building in September 1880, by James Ashworth, the first Chairman of Royton Local Board of Health while the adjacent Carnegie library opened in 1907.

Specialist teams carefully refurbished the much-loved buildings in Royton town centre, bringing the historic building back to its original Victorian splendour and preserving its features.

A new community garden has also been created at the rear, named in the memory of a local war hero, Sergeant John Hogan who received the Victoria Cross in 1914 for his bravery during WWI.

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The restoration included repairs to the clock tower's copper roof and clock face of the town hall, and the demolition of the 1970s rear extension that didn't fit the original design.

These were replaced with a new rear wall that compliments the historic architecture and the new community garden.

Jim McMahon MP, Cllr Arooj Shah and Cllr Zahid Chauhan celebrated the completion in a ceremony last week (Image: Oldham Council)

Inside, the interior has been stripped back to preserve as much of the original decor and features as possible.

The town hall meeting room has also been refurbished and will be available for community hire.

Meanwhile, the adjacent library has had a re-fit and is now fully accessible with new lifts and improved facilities for people with disabilities, including a changing places toilet with adult-sized changing benches, hoists and space for carers.

On Friday, September 13, Oldham Council Leader, Cllr Arrohj Shah, and MP for Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton, Jim McMahon, unveiled a plaque to commemorate the completion.

Cllr Shah said: “Heritage buildings like Royton Town Hall and Library are what make Oldham special.

"That’s why Oldham Council is investing in protecting them for future generations.

“The town hall has been transformed and it looks absolutely amazing. It’s a place that is rooted in the community and a place Royton can be proud of for years to come.

“I look forward to welcoming residents back inside, whether it’s for a special occasion, to simply enjoy reading a book, or to have a quiet moment in the garden. This is your building, and I hope you love it.”

McMahon, who is also the Minister of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, added: "Royton Town Hall is more than just a building, it's a symbol of our community's strength and history.

"I’m immensely proud to have been part of this restoration, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this important landmark for years to come."

The Mayor of Oldham opened the Sergeant John Hogan VC garden (Image: Oldham Council)

Opening the Sergeant John Hogan VC garden, the Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, said: "It was 110 years ago that Sgt John Hogan, at just 30 years old, showed such courage.

“We must never forget the sacrifice that he and so many others made to give us the freedom we enjoy today.

“It is my great honour to name this garden in his memory. It will be a huge asset to the community and somewhere they can play, relax and enjoy.”

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The project included input from the Royton Historical Society (Image: Oldham Council)

Oldham Council also worked closely with the Royton Historical Society throughout the project to respect the character of the building.

The society joined councillors and other guests for the plaque unveiling, alongside representatives from Trinity Methodist Church, who provided a temporary library during the works, and former Royton Town Hall employees who toured the restored building.

Warren Druggitt, Operations Manager at Seddon Property Services, said: "It’s been an honour to restore the town hall back to its former glory especially with so many of the team being from the local area.

"I used to bring my own children to the library when they were younger, and my father was involved in the upkeep of the building whilst working for the council over 27 years.

"We’ve not only been able to engage with expert specialist trades on this project, some of which are now quite rare, but also offer local employment and placement opportunities which have resulted in full time employment for some individuals.

"We’re delighted to be handing the hall back to the local community and hope they enjoy the building for many more years to come."

Royton Library re-opened to the public on Saturday (September 14), and Royton Town Hall will reopen today (Monday, September 16).

A special community celebration will take place on Thursday, September 26, from 10am to 6pm, featuring children’s activities, charity stalls, and opportunities to explore the restored town hall and library.

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk