MP Debbie Abrahams briefed on FCHOs big project

Local MP Debbie Abrahams has been briefed by First Choice Homes Oldham's (FCHO) chief executive about the housing association's proposed 147-home Southlink development - its biggest ever project.

The MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth met with Mark Gifford recently to look over the plans for the 9.7-acre town centre scheme at the former Oldham Mumps railway station. 

Revised plans now show the development will comprise 50 three and four-bedroom family houses alongside 97 one and two-bedroom apartments situated in up to 3.75 acres of public open space. 

All the homes, to be built by Vistry Group, will be affordable with 98 for social rent, 40 for shared ownership and nine for rent-to-buy. 

“We were delighted to have Debbie Abrahams here in our offices for an update on this exciting development – our biggest to date - that will transform this part of Oldham and build a thriving community,” said Mr Gifford. 

“She shared our excitement on what this means to her constituents, the town and our customers and Debbie was pleased to hear the revised plans now have many more much-needed family homes within them. 

“Another area she was positive about was how high-quality and sustainable the homes will be and the large open space within the proposed design to allow a community to develop right in the heart of Oldham. 

“There is no doubt Southlink will be a huge boost to the local economy, if it is granted planning permission, and a great place to live. FCHO is proud of this important project.” 

Mr Gifford explained the MP and the wider community will be kept up to date with developments as the planning application progresses. 

“As always FCHO works with all our elected representatives and other interested parties for the benefit of our customers and communities,” he added. 

Ms Abrahams said: “If given the green light by planners, I understand that an application for funding will be made to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Homes England. 

“The brownfield site, which is jointly owned by Oldham Borough Council and Transport for Greater Manchester, has long been earmarked for redevelopment following the closure of the railway station in 2009. 

“I know that there are so many people waiting for a new home that this will be really welcome news for them.”