Oldham aims to turn historic Egyptian rooms into food hall

Oldham Council has revealed plans to transform a historic town hall space into an independent-style food market.

Situated in the Egyptian Rooms of the landmark Old Town Hall, the casual dining market would deliver a brand-new offer to Oldham town centre.

Featuring six food and drink concessions, it would cater for around 200 people with both inside and outside seating including a large covered al-fresco dining area on Parliament Square.

The venue proposes a similar concept and layout to existing independent food markets across Greater Manchester.

Oldham Council has now applied for permission to redevelop the room — which was once home to the Borough Treasurer’s Rates Hall — and is in discussions with potential operators.

‘This would be an exciting new food and drink experience for Oldham and a great addition to the Old Town Hall and the fantastic businesses already based there and across the town centre,’ said council leader, Cllr Sean Fielding.

‘We’re committed to ensuring Oldham has a vibrant leisure and night-time economy and we are confident a market like this will be welcomed by residents and visitors.’

Following a £37 million redevelopment, the Grade II-listed Old Town Hall was transformed from a derelict building. It is now home to a seven-screen Odeon cinema, Nandos and Molino Lounge.

The council has submitted a bid to the government’s Future High Street Fund to support the delivery of the food market.

If successful, the funding will also support other regeneration projects across the town centre including public realm improvements and the creation of a digital start-up hub.

‘Coronavirus has had a huge impact on Oldham — which is why it’s more important than ever to do everything we can to create investment, jobs and opportunities for people,’ added Cllr Fielding.

“We look forward to hearing the outcome of the Future High Street Fund which will enable us to deliver key regeneration projects to help our town build back better.”

If approved, work will begin on the Egyptian Rooms later this year with a planned opening of summer 2021.