The Prime Minister’s announcement of new powers for councils to tackle the over-concentration of vape and betting shops on our high streets is welcome. We’ve seen a marked increase in these businesses in Oldham. Councils need the tools to act where there is over-concentration and too many end up replacing services and community spaces peopleContinue reading “Rebuilding our high streets”
Author Archives: JimfromOldham
A-Level Results Day 2026
A huge congratulations to everyone across Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton receiving their A-Level, T-Level & VTQ results today. Today is a chance to celebrate the dedication & determination you have put in over the past few years. I hope you can take pride in everything you have achieved and enjoy this special moment. WhetherContinue reading “A-Level Results Day 2026”
Reflecting on my period on the backbenches …
I was delighted to be appointed as a Minister in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by the new Prime Minister in July. Since then, I’ve had a chance to reflect on my 10-month period on the backbenches, where the focus was on a series of campaigns and projects that were important toContinue reading “Reflecting on my period on the backbenches …”
Knife deaths down to 35-year low
I welcome the news that, according to figures released this week, knife deaths are now at their lowest level in 35 years. Knife-enabled deaths have fallen by 26%, while knife crime overall has dropped by 11%. I have been campaigning on gang crime, youth crime and child criminal exploitation in Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton,Continue reading “Knife deaths down to 35-year low”
Great to see the Manchester Evening News covering such a powerful campaign led by Ryan & Cassie
The challenges they have faced are incredibly difficult, and I want to thank them for taking the time to share their story and for raising awareness of an issue that matters to so many people. As an MP, one of the most important parts of my role is listening to residents, understanding the barriers theyContinue reading “Great to see the Manchester Evening News covering such a powerful campaign led by Ryan & Cassie”
Operation AVRO’s latest day of action in Oldham town centre is another example of the difference visible neighbourhood policing can make
Officers carried out warrants, made arrests, seized vehicles, tackled anti-social behaviour and engaged directly with local residents and businesses, sending a clear message that crime won’t be tolerated. Being tough on crime also means being tough on the causes of crime. Alongside strong policing in a ‘day-of-action’ like this, we have also supported the complementaryContinue reading “Operation AVRO’s latest day of action in Oldham town centre is another example of the difference visible neighbourhood policing can make”
Orchard House Day Hospital
I am deeply concerned by reports of the proposed closure of Orchard House Day Hospital in Royton and, in particular, by the apparent lack of communication from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust with service users, their families and my office. I have made enquiries with the Trust on behalf of everyone affected to understand theContinue reading “Orchard House Day Hospital”
The number of serious of fatal collisions on Oldham Roads continues to rise
The latest road casualty statistics for Oldham are a stark reminder that behind every number is a person, a family and a community living with the consequences. This has been an important issue I’ve taken up over the past few years for those reasons. In 2025, Oldham recorded 3 fatal collisions, 82 fatal or seriousContinue reading “The number of serious of fatal collisions on Oldham Roads continues to rise”
