Oldham secures the title of Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2026-27, a milestone celebrated by civic leaders as a major point of pride. The announcement sparks lively online discussions, with mixed reactions highlighting the borough’s cultural potential.
Award Background and Benefits
The Town of Culture initiative draws inspiration from the UK City of Culture program, launched in 2009 by Andy Burnham during his tenure as Culture Secretary. Previous winners include Bury, Stalybridge, Stockport, Bolton, and Rochdale. Oldham receives a £50,000 grant from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Culture Fund to support a year-long slate of festivals, performances, exhibitions, and community events.
This investment aims to celebrate Oldham’s heritage, expand arts participation across communities, and drive tourism and economic growth.
Online Reactions: Skepticism and Strong Defenses
Social media users express surprise and humor following the news. Ian Jen Jerram quipped, “Who were they up against, Chernobyl?” James Jackson Smith added, “It’s not the first of April yet!” David Galpin stated, “Oldham and culture should not be in the same sentence,” while Kate Saunders asked, “Is this a joke?” Gil Chester remarked, “You couldn’t make this up! What a joke, they’ve obviously not spent any time in Oldham.”
Defenders quickly counter, emphasizing Oldham’s vibrant scene. Jeremy M.T. Sutcliffe noted, “Lots of incredulity from those who want to be incredulous. Actually Oldham has a mix of professional cultural venues and organisations alongside a strong network of amateur and community-based groups across the arts, heritage, and creative industries.” He listed key venues like Gallery Oldham, Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Oldham Theatre Workshop, Northern Root, Hack Oldham, and Oldham Artist Network, plus community efforts in choirs, dance, and events.
Paul Wild highlighted notable figures from Oldham, including composer Sir William Walton, soprano Dame Eva Turner, writer Maisie Mosco, artist Sir Brian Clarke, actors Sarah Lancashire, Siobhan Finneran, Olivia Cooke, Tony Marshall, presenter Suranne Jones, musician Clint Boon, physicist Professor Brian Cox, and historian Sir Ian Kershaw. “These people are quick to judge Oldham,” he said. Chris Lynn added, “Bloody lovely people they are! Big shout to Oldham!”
Leaders’ Statements
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, declared, “Oldham’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture is a powerful statement about the kind of city-region we are building, where culture plays a central role in bringing people together and shaping the future of our towns. We’ve seen through previous Towns of Culture how investment in creativity can unlock local talent, strengthen community pride and breathe new life into town centres. This is Oldham’s moment to shine, and a chance to showcase its energy, diversity and ambition to the whole of Greater Manchester and beyond.”
Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, stated, “This is a huge moment of pride for Oldham and a real vote of confidence in our town. With over £450 million of regeneration transforming our town centre, this recognition shows that Oldham’s future is bright and full of opportunity. It’s particularly special to be announcing this in the same week we open our fantastic new events space and our brand-new market. Together, these investments are helping us create a vibrant town centre where culture, community and business can thrive. Oldham has always been a town of creativity, innovation and resilience. Winning Greater Manchester Town of Culture gives us the chance to showcase that to the region and beyond.”
Martina Murphy, CEO of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, commented, “Oldham being named Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture couldn’t come at a better moment. There’s a real creative energy building across the borough, driven by the people who live and make work here. At Oldham Coliseum Theatre, we’re proud to be part of that momentum – continuing our borough-wide programme and preparing to return to our permanent home. With Julie Hesmondhalgh joining us as Guest Curator for our reopening season, this feels like the start of something significant. This isn’t just a celebration – it’s a signal of intent. Oldham’s future is creative, ambitious and ours to shape.”
