Oldham: 'Rotting away' Prudential building now saved

The Grade II Prudential building next to the Oldham Central Metrolink stop on Union Street has become derelict.

It has been named by the Victorian Society as one of the most 'at risk' buildings in the UK.

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The historic landmark was built in 1889 (Image: Oldham Council)

Built in 1889, the Prudential was designed by one of the Victorian period's greatest architects, Alfred Waterhouse, whose other buildings include the Natual History Museum and Manchester Town Hall.

The building became an "eyesore" in the town and the council had attempted "for years" to restore it with its private owner.

Following a two-year battle, Oldham Council has now managed to secure compulsory purchase powers to buy the building and restore it back to life.

The Council has been battling to secure the Prudential building (Image: Oldham Council)

Councillor Arooj Shah, leader of Oldham Council, said: “I'm sure many people, like me, have been gutted to see the Prudential rotting away.

"This is a nationally important historic building at a key entrance into the town centre.

"It's much-loved by Oldhamers and holds a lot of special memories - so I'm delighted that we have successfully saved it.

"We'll breathe new life into it because we want to restore pride in this special building and the wider town centre."

The Victorian Society said it is one of the most 'at risk' buildings in the country (Image: Oldham Council)

Cllr Shah added: "We tried for years to engage with the owner without any success.

"Unfortunately, while the Prudential was in private ownership, we couldn’t take action - as much as we wanted to.

“We’ve continued to monitor the building and required urgent repairs to be carried out where there has been a risk to public safety, particularly as it's yards from a very busy tram route.

"Beyond that statutory duty, our hands have been tied.

"The CPO process has taken over two years to complete and it's been really frustrating that we couldn't get on with things faster.

"It's just one example of how national planning regulations impact local communities and why they need reviewing.

"I welcome the Government's commitment to planning reforms to reduce red tape and kickstart the economy.

Many consider it an 'eyesore' in the town (Image: Oldham Council)

“Now the CPO is complete, we'll quickly start work to prevent any further decay.

“The Prudential is a beautiful building in the heart of our town centre.

"We are lucky to have it in Oldham and it will soon be a welcome sight as you arrive in the town centre, not an eyesore.”

The Prudential is one of many heritage buildings the local authority is investing in to ensure they are preserved for future generations.

Royton Town Hall reopened in September following a complete restoration while the restoration of the Old Library in the town centre will complete next year.

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