Our pubs matter. They’re at the heart of our communities and are vital for bringing local people together.
That’s why I support a potential new package of support for pubs, and why I want to see that help extended to the wider hospitality sector too. From pubs and cafés to restaurants and small independents, these businesses are vital to our local economy.
Locally, I’ve been listening and acting. I recently met with William Lees-Jones from JW Lees Brewery to talk about the pressures pubs are facing and what government can do to help them thrive.
I’ve also been working to sort issues around increased service charges at Royton precinct, where hospitality businesses are a big part of the boom we’re seeing in Royton town centre. When costs rise unfairly, it hits local traders and customers alike and that’s not right.
At the Oldham Town Centre Board meeting in late 2025, I joined stakeholders from across the borough to push forward Towns Fund projects and wider regeneration plans – all focused on driving footfall, backing local businesses and breathing new life into the town centre.
Backing hospitality isn’t just about balance sheets. It’s about jobs, pride and keeping our town centres alive. I’ll keep pushing for practical support that works on the ground.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 