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Our Oldham Story
1825
Oldham becomes a significant centre for the cotton spinning industry, earning the title of the “cotton spinning capital of the world.”
1856
The opening of the Oldham Lyceum, one of the first educational institutions for working people in the area, promoting adult education and self-improvement.
1865
Alexandra Park is officially opened. The park was a response to the Lancashire Cotton Famine and ensured that jobs were created for unemployed mill workers.
1880
The completion of Oldham’s town hall extension, a symbol of the town’s civic pride and growth.
1900
Winston Churchill is elected MP for Oldham, marking the beginning of his political career.
1904
Oldham Athletic Association Football Club begin to play professionally, contributing to the town’s sporting heritage.
1910
Sarah Lees becomes the first female Mayor of Oldham, one of the earliest women in the UK to hold such a position.
1928
Elk Mill is built, the last cotton mill to be constructed in Oldham, symbolising the peak of the cotton industry before its decline.
1937
Death of Clem Beckett (and other Oldham volunteers) in the Spanish Civil War, marking the town’s involvement in global political struggles.
1961
Launch of the world’s first tubular bandage, demonstrating Oldham’s role in innovation and healthcare.
1983
Oldham was one of several UK towns that showed solidarity with the anti-Apartheid Movement, raising awareness and championing the cause.
1991
Oldham’s iconic Spindles Shopping Centre opens, revitalising the town centre and becoming a key hub for retail and local commerce.
2014
Opening of the Oldham Metrolink tram service, connecting the town more effectively with Manchester and boosting local transport infrastructure.
2015
Opening of the Oldham Leisure Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that has helped promote physical activity and well-being in the community.
2020
Partners across Oldham joined forces to lead a coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on safeguarding and supporting the borough’s most vulnerable residents.
2022
Launch of the Oldham Climate Change Strategy, setting ambitious goals to become the greenest borough in Greater Manchester and achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
2024
Launch of the Oldham 2030 Plan – Pride, Progress, Partnership