“It’ll open when it opens”: Council Leader dismisses questions about Oldham Coliseum delay

Oldham Council Leader councillor Arooj Shah has been criticised by the Liberal Democrat Opposition for “completely dismissing” questions about the delayed reopening of Oldham Coliseum Theatre.

At a recent council meeting, Liberal Democrat Group Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE asked Shah to “outline the new timeline for completion, and when we can realistically expect the doors of the Coliseum to reopen?”

The Liberal Democrat boss also asked what additional works had delayed the reopening of the Coliseum and whether there was still enough in the budget to get the job done.

Shah’s answer drew astonishment from councillors as she stated, “It will open when it opens.”

Councillor Sykes said, “It’s an absolute joke that the Council Leader is completely dismissing legitimate questions about the Oldham Coliseum.  People really care about our theatre and audiences and businesses deserve answers and clarity.” 

“I would remind councillor Shah that she was the one who promised the Coliseum would reopen for Panto season.  People remember that promise, particularly people in the business community, who will have been hoping for the business boost that our famous Oldham Panto brings.  We deserve more from our Council Leader than arrogance and avoidance.”