Author Archives: JimfromOldham

A reminder that the Government’s consultation on nuisance fireworks closes at 23:59 this Wednesday. I’ve heard repeated concerns from many residents about the distress caused by fireworks being set off illegally late at night and throughout the year across Oldham. The consultation includes proposals to restrict the loudest fireworks to professional displays and tackle theContinue reading “Consultation on Fireworks closes on Wednesday!”

A whirlwind few days in Liverpool for this year’s fantastic Labour Party Conference, with a real focus on how we turn Labour’s ambitions into delivery on the ground. I joined the National Policy Forum, the LGA, the Co-op Party, Core Cities UK, DevoAgency and a range of fringe events, joining members, councillors and mayors toContinue reading “Labour Party Conference 2026”

I am deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Peter Dean. He served the borough as a councillor for decades and I had the privilege of working closely with him when we were both councillors in Failsworth, doing many good things including the refurbishment of Failsworth Pole Gardens and many other projects. He servedContinue reading “Death of Peter Dean”

Despite Parliament being in recess for the Party Conference season, its been busy as a Minister travelling across the country. Here’s what I’ve been up to this week 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗲 I started up in Preston to meet with the district council, county council & combined authority leaders. We had a really useful discussion aboutContinue reading “This week in government”

It is extremely welcome that the proposed seven-bedroom House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) on Long Lane in Chadderton has been refused by Oldham Council’s Planning Committee. I wrote to the Council in August setting out my concerns about this application, including: the impact on the character of the area, neighbouring amenity, parking and highway safety;Continue reading “Long Lane HMO proposal refused”

Very pleased to see the Government bringing forward new vocational GCSE options, this is a really important step towards putting technical and academic education on an equal footing. These will give young people more opportunities to develop practical skills and create clear routes into apprenticeships, T Levels and further study. I know how important thatContinue reading “New vocational GCSE options are on their way”

Clean energy should mean lower bills, good jobs and stronger communities. Great British Energy’s nearly £30 million fund to support more than 1,000 community energy projects across the UK is this in action. The Co-operative Party has championed the community ownership of energy. Oldham is already showing what is possible, with Wrigley Head Solar FarmContinue reading “Community power driving clean power …”