The Cabinet of Oldham Council met to discuss several key issues, including the approval of a new Light Duty Vehicle Crossings Policy, the acceptance of significant grants for housing and infrastructure projects, and the endorsement of a social value policy. Decisions were made to address the national housing crisis locally, improve services for children and families, and support the expansion of childcare.

Light Duty Vehicle Crossings Policy

The Cabinet approved a new Light Duty Vehicle Crossings Policy to replace the existing one from 2018. The new policy reduces the minimum driveway length requirement to 4.7 metres, enabling more properties to qualify for a dropped kerb. This change aims to reduce congestion on highways and support electric vehicle charging.

Acceptance of Brownfield Infrastructure and Land Funding Grant for Oldham Mumps, Princes Gate

The Council secured capital funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to support the development of 347 new homes at Princes Gate, Oldham Mumps. The Cabinet confirmed acceptance of the grant and delegated authority to the Director of Economy to enter into necessary agreements with GMCA.

UKSPF Grant Acceptance - E22 Supporting Local Business

The Cabinet approved the acceptance of a £1,462,282 UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant from GMCA. The grant will support the Managed Workspace programme in the Spindles and provide business support to create economic growth and new enterprises. The programme aims to deliver 300 enterprises receiving non-financial support, 80 jobs created, and 40 new enterprises.

United Utilities Green Recovery Fund Grant Acceptance

The Cabinet accepted a £1,991,000 grant from United Utilities Plc to support four projects in Oldham town centre: West Street, Rock Street, Market Street, and Curzon Street. These projects aim to increase sustainable urban drainage capacity and improve amenity spaces.

New Residential Children’s Homes

The Cabinet approved funding and delegations to support the purchase and refurbishment of three 3/4-bedroomed homes to be converted into registered residential children’s homes. This decision aims to provide better accommodation choices for children cared for by the local authority.

Improving Our Services for Children, Young People and Their Families

The Cabinet approved the phased implementation of a remodelled service around seven new Family Hubs. These hubs will provide early help to families with children and young people aged 0-19 (up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities). The new hubs are expected to open during Spring 2024.

Capital and Revenue Grants - Childcare Expansion Programme

The Cabinet approved the allocation and expenditure of Oldham’s 2024-2026 Childcare Expansion Capital and Revenue Grant. This funding will support the expansion of childcare provision, including wraparound childcare and the free entitlement for working parents.

Capital Investment at the Bluecoat School

The Cabinet approved a £3.5 million capital project to prevent the closure of a teaching block at the Bluecoat School. The Council will fund £1.169 million through a direct grant and £1.84 million through a loan to the Cranmer Education Trust, with the Trust funding the remaining £0.491 million.

Procurement of Social Prescribing Service

The Cabinet approved the procurement of an all-age social prescribing service for a period of five years, with the option to extend for two additional two-year periods. This service will support adults and children with issues such as loneliness, mental health, welfare, and housing.

Oldham Council’s Social Value Policy

The Cabinet approved the adoption of the Council’s first social value policy, which will guide commissioning, procurement, and other practices to ensure additional benefits for residents and communities. The policy aims to make Oldham a leader in embedding social value.

For more details, you can refer to the Cabinet 18-3-24 Minutes.