Plans for historic theatre refurbishment revealed

The Oldham Coliseum is set to reopen in 2026

Plans for the renovation of an historic Greater Manchester theatre have been revealed.

Oldham Coliseum, on Fairbottom Street in the town centre, closed its doors in March 2023 after losing Arts Council funding.

Oldham Council later agreed to fund the £10m refurbishment project following a campaign led by celebrities including former Coronation Street actress Julie Hesmondhalgh.

The council has now released plans for the renovations, including a new entrance with a ramp and remodelled front steps.

The designs include a new entrance and improved bar area inside

The building's roof will also be re-done, with plans for better insulation and soundproofing and the removal of parts of the theatre made of asbestos.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service reports that the refurbishment plans also include new changing facilities and an improved bar area inside.

A design statement by Ellis Williams architects said: "This scheme presents an opportunity to not only reopen the building for public use, but reinstate a key element of the local arts and culture scene – and beyond.

"The intention is to reinvigorate the user experience and levy a positive impact on Oldham's urban fabric."

The theatre was set to reopen in late, but the council said the reopening had been delayed until 2026.