An update on the Oldham Coliseum Theatre refurbishment 

The council team says strong progress is being made on the project, and the partners are committed to delivering a high-quality and safe venue, with the reopening now set for 2027.

As the work has progressed, more detailed surveys have shown that extra work’s needed to make sure the theatre meets modern standards, including addressing structural elements and materials such as asbestos. An extra £7m has been agreed by the council to fund these necessary works, which are identified as an investment into culture for the people of Oldham. The money is grant funded, meaning no extra expense to Oldham Council taxpayers.

The scaffolding is due to be removed in the coming months, and the contractors, Tilbury Douglas, say much of the work has been completed, including:

– A brand new roof has been fitted, protecting the building for decades to come.

– The backstage area has been redesigned to create a wider, fully accessible route to the stage, along with modern changing rooms, showers and toilet facilities.

– The building has been carefully stripped back, with outdated services taken out, preparing the theatre for its next phase while protecting its historic character.

– During the work, a previously unknown basement was discovered beneath the entrance foyer, along with a Coliseum membership card dating back to 1953, adding another chapter to the theatre’s rich history.

Martina Murphy, Oldham Coliseum Theatre’s CEO says “The Oldham Coliseum is more than a building. It’s where generations of people have discovered theatre, laughed together and created lasting memories. Every decision being made is about creating a theatre that honours its remarkable history while giving future generations a place to imagine and belong. We want people to walk through those doors knowing we’ve built something that will serve Oldham for decades to come.

“While work on the building continues, the Coliseum has remained active, developing artists, engaging communities and bringing theatre to audiences across the borough. With a strengthened creative leadership team now in place, we’re building on that momentum with confidence and are preparing for the re-opening. The building may be under construction, but the Coliseum is very much alive.”

Julie Hesmondhalgh, OCT’s Guest Curator added “Although it is obviously disappointing that we have to wait still longer for the reopening of our beloved Coli, I’m sure everyone understands that getting things right and making the beautiful old girl properly future proof is the no 1 priority. Huge thanks to Tilbury Douglas for working so hard and for communicating so transparently with us, and to OMBC for continuing to invest in Oldham Coliseum’s future. We couldn’t be more excited by our interim plans, and we at OCT can’t  wait to share them soon.”

Expect an announcement very soon, on our exciting plans for our Autumn/Winter season 2026.  Watch this space!