A new park has officially opened in Oldham town centre, transforming the former sports centre site into a green space for residents, workers and visitors.
The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Pam Byrne, marked the opening of the first phase of Tommyfield Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 23.
Covering 1.5 acres, the park features open lawns, walking trails, seating areas and an amphitheatre-style terrace, providing space for families to play, friends to meet and workers to take a break from the day.
Once the second phase is completed in 2027, the park will span 5.7 acres, creating a significant new green space in the heart of the town.
The development forms part of Oldham Council’s wider regeneration plans, with the ambition of creating a greener, healthier and more attractive town centre alongside new homes and investment.
Tommyfield Park will also connect with Snipe Gardens, which opened in June 2025, helping establish a greener walking route between Oldham Bus Station and the town centre.
Cllr Byrne said: “This is a proud moment for Oldham. Tommyfield Park is much more than a new park. It’s an investment in our residents, our communities and the future of our town centre.
“Creating more green space has been part of our vision for Oldham for many years because we know how important it is for people’s health and wellbeing.
“It’s rare to see a major new park created in the heart of a town centre, but as we build new homes and continue to attract investment, it’s important that we create great places for people to enjoy too.”
The park’s design also reflects the history of the site, with red sandstone excavated during construction incorporated into the landscaping. Sections of beech trees from Tandle Hill Country Park have also been used in the development.
At the entrance stands the Pioneers Stone, created by Frank Rothwell OBE, commemorating Oldham’s contribution to the birth of the world’s first IVF baby, Louise Joy Brown, at Oldham General Hospital in 1978.
The tribute recognises the pioneering medical team, Louise’s parents and the women whose work helped make the breakthrough possible.
Young people have also played a role in shaping the park’s future through engagement with community groups and partners, helping ensure it becomes a welcoming space for generations to come.
Cameron Gates, who has been involved in the project through SPARK Oldham, said: “Being involved in Tommyfield Park has been a brilliant experience. It’s something that’s going to be here for years to come and knowing I’ve played a part in it makes me really proud.
“I’ve been with SPARK for two and a half years and it’s made a huge difference to me. I’ve grown so much in confidence, especially with public speaking. I’ve seen Oldham change for the better and in that time I’ve changed a lot too.”
The second phase will be built on the site of the former Tommyfield Market Hall, with plans for a larger play area, climbing features, water play and a sustainable pond.
The council said the park would be supported by CCTV cameras managed by its First Response team, alongside regular inspections and maintenance to keep the area clean and well maintained.
Tommyfield Park is part of Oldham’s £450 million Creating a Better Place regeneration programme, which includes developments such as The Market and Loom at Spindles, J R Clynes, new housing at Princes Gate and improvements to public spaces across the town centre.
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