Long-established health and beauty clinic gets boost with Oldham Independent Quarter backing

Multi award-winning Tymbuktu Health and Beauty clinic – one of Yorkshire Street’s longest established businesses – is the latest to receive Independent Quarter funding from Oldham Council.

Tymbuktu
Cllr Jim McMahon with Gillian Holt (centre) and Karen Astles

Gillian Holt and Karen Astles started work there as teenagers and only a few years later, both aged 20, took the plunge and bought the businesses in 1980.

Since then Gillian and Karen, who employ six other staff, have built up a large and loyal client base and now thanks to the new council funding they have replaced the shop front and decorated inside.

Gillian said: “It’s an exciting time for Oldham, and the new Independent Quarter will give Oldham something different to offer shoppers.

“Well done to Oldham Council for having the vision to regenerate the area bringing more businesses, jobs and shoppers to the area.”

Councillor Jim McMahon, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “We are actively working to attract new businesses to the Independent Quarter but that doesn’t mean we are forgetting those that have been set up for years and have loyal client bases.

“As we’ve shown with previous grants Oldham Council is here to support existing businesses as they have an important role to play in the regeneration of our town centre.”

“For a beauty salon to have been in business for so many years is a great achievement. Gillian and Karen have not only shown resilience to withstand tough financial times over the years but they’ve also been able to adapt with trends and fashions.

“We hope this money will help them continue for many more years to come.”

Since the Independent Quarter initiative was launched in 2013 a number of traders have already moved or relocated into new premises after receiving support.

The initial focus is to support businesses in the Independent Quarter in the triangle between Yorkshire Street, Clegg Street and Union Street East.

For further information on Oldham’s Independent Quarter visit: www.iqoldham.co.uk  or call 0161 770 2077.

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