THE FUTURE of one of Saddleworth’s most iconic clubs will be decided after this weekend.
With a deadline of midnight on Sunday, there has been a flurry of proposals to take over the historic Delph Club on Gartside Street.
News of the 150-year-old club’s dilemma first broke late last year when locals and members received a letter from the committee seeking support to secure its future.
The letter, which warned the club would close, acted as a rallying call and there was a revival of interest in maintaining the premises.
A spokesman for the club said: “We have had a number of proposals ranging from an outright purchase, letting the property and a few business options to keep the club alive.
“The club and trustees are keen on choosing a proposal that will benefit the club, the trustees and, most importantly, the village.
“We all live locally and are keen on what the building will be turned into,” he added.
“However, at the moment, the proposals are just proposals and this will not constitute a contract. They are purely expressions of interest.
“We are keen to get some sort of deal organised as the club cannot run in its current state as it is not financially viable. It is a shame to see it go, however our hands are tied.”
Campaigning committee member Alan Shackleton said a great deal of goodwill has been shown to the club in the past few weeks.
“People have been booking birthday parties, musicians playing for little more than expenses, and the pool team and supporters continue to meet on Wednesday nights well after the winter season has finished,” he explained.
“It was suggested the building might be of use to Delph Band Club as an extra venue or as alternative premises. But we understand they are happy with their present premises.
“Mahdlo, the Oldham youth project, have expressed a willingness to talk to the community about the possibility of creating a youth service presence in the village, using the premises.
“The BBC filmed at the club for a series and the donation they are making is very welcome.
“All these things are encouraging, but it would need quite a large group of local enthusiastic people to frame a definite workable proposal to make the building sustainable for the community over the long term.”
Local OMBC and Saddleworth Parish Councillor, Nicola Kirkham, has volunteered to lead a team to work free for six months in a bid to keep the doors open at the legendary club.
She said: “The club is a great facility and it would be sad to see it close.”
The closing date for proposals is midnight on Sunday, May 22. Anybody wishing to give a proposal can contact Henry Burbidge: call 07929191472 or email: hburbidge@obsideri.co.uk
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