Locals in 'UK's most miserable town' hit back - 'life's beautiful here'
In an attempt to boost Oldham, the local council is introducing plans that aim to create 1,000 jobs and opportunities for young people.
Residents living in the town of Oldham in Greater Manchester have hit back after the town was dubbed one of the unhappiest places to live in the UK in a Rightmove survey.
The town has reportedly been hit hard in recent years because of the worsening cost of living crisis and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the trials and tribulations experienced by the town, residents have spoken about the benefits of living in Oldham and the beauty of its surroundings.
Speaking to the press about what it's like to live in the area, locals have expressed support for the town and the things it provides that more built-up places cannot.
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Devon Wilkshire, 28, told the Manchester Evening News that living in Oldham was a “breath of fresh air” after growing up in Cheetham Hill. He explained: “I grew up looking at all the skylines being built up in the city centre and soaking up all the pollution.
“Whereas here my kids are at the top of the hill. You can see into the Pennines. When you come from the city to a place like this, it’s a breath of fresh air.”
What’s more, Mr Wilkshire is positive that the town is about to turn a corner. He added: “I see it as up-and-coming. We’ve got the transport links.
“Stockport doesn’t have that, Bolton doesn’t, Wigan doesn’t. This little town is perfectly positioned to boost the economy of Greater Manchester. The best thing about Oldham is the opportunities.”
Mr Wilkshire’s comments are echoed by Uber driver Mohammed who expressed support for the town. The 37-year-old said that people “like to s**t” on Oldham, but that the local people were “amazing” and “know how to support each other".
While Mr Wilkshire and Mohammed are positive about Oldham’s present and its future, other residents are less convinced about its prospects.
Grace Arden, who lives with her partner Reade, criticised Oldham for having “no nightlife”, and not providing enough for young people. She said that even if there were more things to do, she wouldn’t be able to afford them because of high rent.
As a result, the couple have taken the decision to leave not just Oldham, but the UK altogether, and move to China by 2025.
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On why some locals are negative about Oldham, Mohammed said he believed their criticism comes from how proud of the town they were.
He explained: “I think it’s because people are actually really proud of Oldham. It makes them critical. But there’s definitely beauty here, you just need to know where.”
Furthermore, in response to Oldham’s predicament, the council is responding with a new plan to re-energise and revive the town centre.
Under the ‘Creating a Better Place’ strategy, there will be a series of regeneration projects that aim to unlock £285m, create 1,000 jobs, build 2,000 new homes and create 100 opportunities for apprenticeships.