Council leader joins Langtree and Russell WBHO to mark occasion.
Work has begun on a ‘game changer’ for Oldham’s competitiveness, as contractors commence the transformation of a former gas-holder site on J22 of the M60 into a major employment zone.
Russell WBHO is the construction partner for the project, which will deliver 192,000 square feet of distribution and manufacturing space across 13 industrial units. The work kickstarts the largest phase of the Hollinwood Junction regeneration scheme, a mixed-use development that is expected to create 720 jobs when fully complete.
Joining them was Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, and Josh Downes, executive director – development, of developer Langtree.
Commenting on the start on site, Cllr Shah said:
“This is an important moment for one of our biggest projects, and I’m pleased work is now starting on site.
“The high quality of this development shows that Oldham is attracting serious investors and businesses. It also sends a strong message that our borough is a place full of opportunities and growth.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the progress and to welcoming new businesses who choose Oldham for its great location and skilled workforce.”
Langtree, appointed as the council’s delivery partner for the scheme, says the development will be key to encouraging more investment in the borough.
“This will be a game changer for Oldham. The ability to provide a range of modern industrial units to occupiers is key to attracting ambitious, forward-looking employers, but it goes beyond that. It sets a benchmark for other investors and developers to follow,” said Josh Downes.
Langtree recently concluded a forward-funding deal with industrial investor and landlord Indurent, enabling construction work to begin.
The development’s industrial units will range from c.5,000 to c.42,000 square feet with associated parking and service yards. The site was previously occupied by a large gasholder, which was demolished in 2020.
Jonathan Rhodes, Project Director at Russell WBHO, added: “We’re proud to be leading this vital investment project for Oldham. Transforming a brownfield site into a prime industrial scheme not only supports the council’s plans for growth but provides sustainable employment space for the borough. Our team is committed to building to the highest standards, targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating, including the use of environmentally-responsible construction materials and methods.”
The site is adjacent to Junction 22 of the M60 Motorway, southwest of Oldham town centre, and is a key plank in the local council’s ambitions to attract new employers to the area. The completed Hollinwood Junction regeneration scheme is expected to create upwards of 720 employment opportunities across retail, leisure and employment sectors, and the construction of up to 150 family homes.
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