The centre, known as Oma, is intended to create a 鈥榗ultural gateway鈥� for the town. It will integrate Oldham鈥檚 Victorian Grade 2-listed former library and its current arts centre.
Oma will showcase the story of Oldham鈥檚 past from its time as the cotton spinning capital of the world to the present day, with gallery spaces, archives and public research rooms. The venue will house the borough鈥檚 collection of objects and artworks and will enable increased public access to heritage assets.
Councillor Sean Fielding, leader of the council and cabinet member for economy and enterprise, said: 鈥淭his is another great step in the regeneration of our town centre and our plans to make Oldham a cultural destination.
鈥淚nterserve has a strong track record in delivering similar projects to a high standard and were responsible for restoring the Corn Exchange in Manchester. I am confident that it will produce a great building which reflects our proud history and heritage, but also adds the modern touches needed to reflect the needs of society today.鈥�
Phil Shaw, divisional director at Interserve Construction, said: 鈥淥ur team has significant experience of working on historic buildings like Oldham鈥檚 Victorian library and we will be bringing our expertise and capabilities to the project by adding a contemporary and modern addition to the building while respecting its architectural heritage.
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