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Connolly helps to breathe new life into Oldham community hub
A “much-loved” community centre in Oldham will reopen this spring following a £25,000 refurbishment undertaken by Connolly and our partners.
Working alongside First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) and Wates Property Services (WPS), Connolly has contributed to the revamp of the main room at Apfel Lane Community Centre in Chadderton, which closed late last year.
The work is part of FCHO’s social value drive and has seen Connolly invest £3,500 on new windows to make the building warmer and more energy-efficient, while WPS provided new flooring, a new ceiling and lighting, plus decorating and new blinds.
Further additional funds will be spent on furniture and other work in the coming weeks, bringing the total investment to around £25,000.
“This community centre is much-loved, but it was dated and needed a revamp to bring it up to standard,” said FCHO stronger communities manager Naomi Martin-Smith.
“Thanks to the generous support of WPS and Connolly we are now putting the finishing touches to this refurbishment and looking forward to a spring reopening. The new room is more spacious and comfortable with much better lighting. The new windows have made the building look appealing and comfy too.”
“All this means the community centre will soon once again be a valuable and welcoming space for customers, volunteers and local groups that in the past have included an autism parent peer support and guitar music groups.”
Jonathan Mayoh, senior project manager at Connolly, said: “Working closely with our communities is essential, as it strengthens trust, ensures the work we deliver reflects real local needs, and creates long‑lasting social value.
“By investing in community spaces, we help build pride, connection, and wellbeing, aligning with our purpose to make a meaningful difference where it matters most.”
Operations manager at WPS, Brian Birch, added: “We are immensely proud to have supported this refurbishment as part of our Conservation and Community Month. Our commitment to reimagining places for people to thrive inspires us to create welcoming, functional spaces that serve the heart of the community.