Oldham play area finds temporary home as new park is built

The play area outside Primark which has entertained youngsters for years is currently being relocated for a few months under regeneration plans for a new and improved facility.

The pop-up play area will be slightly further up the High Street, outside Holland & Barrett, and will open in time for Christmas.

New swings and a slide are being set up in the temporary area as the existing equipment has reached the end of its lifespan.

An example of the swings that will be put up in the temporary play area (Image: OMBC)

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In summer 2025, a new playground will then open outside Primark again with lots of new equipment for children to enjoy.

The scheme comes as part of the Accessible Oldham project, which seeks to improve public areas across the town centre by making it easier to walk and cycle while boosting the environment with new trees, plants and eco-friendly features.

The play area will also have a new slide (Image: OMBC)

Completed phases include the work around the bus station, Hilton Square near Tommyfield Market Hall and the new green space at Rock Street.

The demolition of the former Snipe Inn pub is also now complete while work to create a new entrance into the town centre continues.

Once the new and improved play area opens, the pop-up play area will close and the equipment will be reused in another area of the borough. 

The new green space at Rock Street (Image: OMBC)

Leader of Oldham Council, Councillor Arooj Shah, said: "We want to make sure Oldham is a welcoming place for all ages and we recognise how popular this play area is and how well it is used by families.

"It gives youngsters a dedicated, safe space where they can have fun and fresh air while they’re in the town centre.

"While we replace this existing play area, we have decided to create a temporary one nearby, to ensure there is always a play facility until the new playground is completed.

Completed improvement works on Hilton Square/Albion Street (Image: OMBC)

"We’re transforming Oldham and there’s so much to look forward to.

"Your new-look town centre will also soon include an amazing new park with lots of green space all around it for children to enjoy and explore.

“In the meantime, please do continue to use these free facilities and make the most of our town centre with your family.”