Shoppers turned out in their hundreds to the new Oldham Market last weekend, with many describing the space as a “fresh start” for the town.

Despite bleak weather, families, residents, and visitors began arriving early on Saturday, March 28, packing into the new £38m space at Spindles Shopping Centre for its official opening.

The opening day had a festival-like atmosphere, with entertainment, activities and free giveaways for the first hundred visitors. 

Queues formed well before the 9am opening, and footfall remained steady throughout the day. 

Jim McMahon MP for Oldham West and Royton said: “People, quite rightly, are usually nervous about any change. But when they see every stall is full and has a face behind it, and so many people have invested in our market, I think that is inspiring. Also, the range of things you can get here now is amazing.”

“The experience in town now can’t just be that people will come here and shop. It also got to be a place where people want to be, where they’d want to spend time with friends and families, grab a coffee, go see a film, and have a meal. You can do all that in Oldham market now.”

The new market links to The Spindles shopping centre and opens into Parliament Square. It is a key part of Oldham Council’s wider regeneration plans.

Shoppers were able to shop from a wide array of traders selling products ranging from fruit, flowers and veggies to mobile phones, stationery, and café items.

Council leader Arooj Shah said the opening marks “a proud moment” for the town. 

“It celebrates our heritage while setting the stage for a brighter, bolder future,” she said.

“This is also a celebration of the traders and small businesses who are the heartbeat of this town, and this new modern market gives them the space, support and visibility they deserve.

Around 45 traders have moved into the new site. The market brings a mix of food, retail and services under one roof. Many hope the modern setting and increased footfall will help them grow after years of uncertainty and delays. 

Trader Jabbar Khan of Qtech Phones said: “Our shop was opened in 2015 and we had been waiting for a long time for this new space. Although we did a fairly good business at the Tommy field’s, I hope this new market will bring a fresh lease of life.”