Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Azad and Bashforth.

Councillor Ghafoor declared a pecuniary interest in agenda item 10 (Motion 2 – Strengthening Standards and Transparency for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)) and he left the room during the consideration and determination of this Motion.

The Mayor indicated that he had been advised of an Urgent item of Business to be considered at this meeting arising from the proceedings of the Standards Sub-Committee meeting that was held on Tuesday, 11^th November 2025. Councillor Hince MOVED and Councillor Navesey SECONDED that Council Procedure Rules (namely Council Procedure Rule 4.1 relating to the business to be transacted at the meeting) be suspended to allow this matter to be discussed by the Council. On being put to the Vote the Motion was CARRIED.

The meeting was adjourned at 6.15pm and reconvened at 6.55pm

The Mayor advised that he was permitting a 10-minute debate on the proceedings of the Standards Sub-Committee and the meeting was addressed by Councillors Hince, Navesey, Kenyon, Ghafoor, Harrison, Shah and Sykes thereon.

The meeting was adjourned at 7.20pm and reconvened at 7.35pm

The Mayor indicated that he was minded to vary the order of the agenda, insofar as item 16 (Electronic Voting) would be considered after agenda item 9 (Questions to Leader and Cabinet). Councillor Shah MOVED and Councillor Jabbar SECONDED this variation to the agenda and, on being put to the Vote, the Motion was CARRIED.

In view of the amount of time lost due to the two adjournments Councillor Chauhan MOVED and Councillor Rustidge SECONDED the MOTION that the Council shall suspend Council Procedure Rules in respect of agenda item 9 (Reports of the Leader and Cabinet Members). On being put to the Vote the MOTION was CARRIED.

RESOLVED: That the Council suspends Council Procedure Rules in respect of not having a debate on agenda item 9 (Reports of the Leader and Cabinet Members) and requesting that Cabinet Members provide written answers to the questions submitted by non-executive members.

The Mayor reported that the timings for the Motions to be considered at item 11 (Notice of Opposition Business) be allocated as follows: Liberal Democrat Group’s Motion – 10 minutes, Oldham Group’s Motion - 10 minutes, the Conservative Group’s Motion – 8 minutes and the Reform UK Group’s Motion – 2 minutes.

(time limit 20 minutes)

There are no petitions for this meeting of the Council to consider.

There were no petitions for this meeting of the Council to consider.

(10 minutes)

Leader to address Council

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Arooj Shah, delivered her Annual Statement. 

The Leader reminded the Council of her priorities, as set out in May 2023, when she first assumed office and highlighted work that had been done and which was still being done to improve Oldham, to retain a resident focused approach and to provide high quality services for local people.

As Leader of Oldham Council, it is both a privilege and a profound responsibility to serve this remarkable borough – the place I grew up and the place I am proud to call my home. Oldham is a place of resilience, ambition, and heart — shaped by its proud history and driven by the energy and creativity of its people. 

It’s?a real privilege to stand here today, in this incredible new home for democracy; the JR Clynes Building, for our first Council meeting in these surroundings. This building?isn’t?just a new workplace;?it’s?a symbol of the regeneration and renewal happening right across our borough. It?represents?a new chapter for Oldham, one rooted in pride, ambition, and progress.?

This Annual Statement marks a moment to reset our ambitions and recommit to building a better Oldham — one that is fairer, greener, and more inclusive for everyone who calls it home.

Our work is guided by three core values: Pride, Progress, and Partnership. 

Pride in our borough and its people; Progress that is bold, sustainable, and rooted in opportunity; and Partnership — because we know that real change only happens when we work together, across communities, sectors, and boundaries.

With these values at our heart, we move forward with purpose and determination. Oldham’s best days are ahead, and together, we will make them happen.

This year, Oldham Council was named ‘Most Improved Council’ at the prestigious LGC Awards — a recognition that speaks volumes about the journey we’ve been on and the people and partnerships we have. It’s a moment of pride, but not one of complacency.  This is not a celebration of perfection, but of progress. It reflects the hard work, honest self-assessment, and difficult decisions we’ve made together.  It’s a testament to the power of collaboration — across political lines, with our partners, and most importantly, with our residents.

Behind this recognition lies a deeper transformation. Over the past year, we’ve seen a cultural shift within the Council, led by our new Chief Executive, focused on reshaping who we are, and how we work.

We are becoming more open and transparent, sharing our challenges as well as our successes.

We are more responsive to residents, listening actively and acting with urgency.

We are more focused on the everyday realities people face — from housing and health to jobs and community safety.

This last twelve months marks a turning point in our relationship with national government.  

The Labour government’s clear commitment to reforming local government is a long-overdue recognition that councils like Oldham are not just service providers, but strategic partners in delivering national renewal  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

(time limit 20 minutes)

There is no Youth Council business to consider.

There was no Youth Council business for this meeting of the Council to consider.

(time limit 15 Minutes)

1.    Question from Hannah Roberts

Can the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care confirm NHS advice on taking paracetamol during pregnancy and why it is important that parents and carers follow NHS guidance on childhood vaccinations? Can she also outline what action the Council is taking to promote childhood vaccinations and whether there are any plans for Family Hubs to support parents and carers in making sure children get protection from dangerous diseases such as measles, rubella, polio, diphtheria, hepatitis B, tetanus and whooping cough?

Councillor Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Adults, \health and Wellbeing replied that paracetamol remains the recommended pain relief option for pregnant women when used as directed. Oldham GPs continue to prescribe it to our Oldham mothers and encourage its use amongst family members safe in the knowledge this advice is based on the best evidence we have. Fever and untreated pain are much more serious risks to mothers and unborn children

Vaccinations are a safe and effective way of protecting children from serious diseases, which if contracted can lead to long term health problems and in some cases, loss of life. Vaccinations protect the individuals receiving them, as well as other people in the community who have not reached the minimum age to be vaccinated or may not be able to have vaccinations due to severe allergies, or weakened immune systems. 

Oldham Council have funded voluntary sector Community Health Champions who have taken part in VaxChat training. They have been using this learning to share vaccination messages with the communities they support. Oldham Council are working with two of our Health Champion organisations to gather insights from communities with low take up of MMR vaccination to better understand the barriers to vaccine take-up so that we can tailor our future approach.

Oldham Council funds the integrated children’s and families service that operates out of the family hubs. This includes health visitors providing clear and evidence-based information to parents and carers about the benefits and safety of vaccines. They can help address misinformation and help our communities understand what vaccines are due and when.

2.    Question from Jenny Harrison

It really was useful to be able to use pensioner and disabled bus passes before 09.30 on Bee Network buses during August.

Are there any plans to put this in place permanently?

And how is the new 28-day Bee Network bus pass for 18–24-year-olds, costing £40 a month, being promoted to ensure that as many young people as possible benefit?  

Councillor Goodwin, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways replied, stating that Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is responsible for this initiative, which aligns with its broader Bee Network strategy to improve connectivity, reduce barriers to travel, and enhance public transport access for residents across Greater Manchester.

Oldham Council actively supports these initiatives, reflecting its ongoing commitment to securing the best outcomes for local communities. Through close collaboration with TfGM and the Bee Network, the council continues to champion improved transport options that meet the needs of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

(time limit 90 minutes)

1. Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Growth – including the Minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held 21^st July, 8^th September, 22^nd September and 20^th October 2025; the minutes of meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority held 22^nd August and 26^th September 2025.
2. Statutory Deputy Leader and Neighbourhoods Portfolio Holder
3. Deputy Leader and Finance, Corporate Services and Sustainability Portfolio Holder
4. Children and Young People’s Portfolio Holder
5. Adults, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio Holder
6. Education and Skills Portfolio Holder
7. Culture and Leisure Portfolio Holder
8. Enterprise Portfolio Holder
9. Transport and Highways Portfolio Holder

The Mayor reminded Council that earlier in the meeting (Minute 3), Members had agreed to suspend Council Procedure Rules in respect of this agenda item.

RESOLVED:

1.    That the Minutes of the Cabinet meetings held 21^st July 2025, 8^th September 2025, 22^nd September 2025 and 20^th October 2025, be noted.

2.    That the Minutes of the meetings of the Greater Manchester

     Combined Authority, held 22^nd August 2025 and 26^th September 2025, be noted.

3.    That the reports of the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet Members, be noted.

A report seeking a change to the Constitution to enable electronic voting, and to clarify the procedure for use of electronic voting.

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONDED a report of the Executive Director of Resources which outlined a change to the Constitution to enable electronic voting and to clarify the procedure for use of electronic voting.

The Council’s Constitution sets out the way in which voting takes place at meetings of the Council or it’s committees. The Constitution currently provided for voting to take place by way of a show of hands or affirmation of the meeting if there was no dissent, unless a recorded vote is requested.

Council was advised that there was already a procedure in the Constitution for recording the way votes are cast, which involved each councillor declaring how they were voting. A recorded vote would be taken on the requisition of any member supported by five other Members. The results of a recorded vote were set out in the minutes of the relevant meeting.

The Council Chamber in the JR Clynes Building had facilities to enable electronic voting to produce quick, accurate numbers of members voting for, against or abstaining on a motion. The system also recorded the way that each member casted their vote.  Each Member possessed a desk unit which housed a microphone, LCD screen and buttons to vote for a motion, against a motion, or to abstain from voting.

RESOLVED:

That the Council’s Constitution be updated to include the changes set out in paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3 of the submitted report, and to also include that the results of each electronic vote, irrespective of whether it is a recorded vote or not will be published on the screens in the meeting.

(time limit 30 minutes)

Motion 1: Improving Parking Provision at Royal Oldham Hospital

To be Moved by Cllr Zahid Chauhan
to be Seconded by Cllr Barbara Brownridge

This Council notes:

• That Royal Oldham Hospital provides essential health services for thousands of Oldham residents every week, including emergency, maternity, and specialist care.
• That patients, visitors, and NHS staff frequently report serious difficulties finding parking spaces at and around the hospital site.
• That parking shortages lead to missed or delayed appointments, added stress for patients and families, and unfair parking fines for staff and visitors.
• That the hospital’s current car park layout cannot meet the increasing demand from both hospital users and staff.

This Council believes:

• That access to healthcare should not be made more stressful by inadequate or unaffordable parking.
• That a multi-storey car park or other expanded parking solution would significantly improve accessibility and patient experience without consuming additional land.
• That NHS staff, particularly those working long or unsociable hours, should have access to safe and affordable parking.
• That dedicated and accessible parking should be available for people with mobility issues and wheelchair users.

This Council therefore resolves to:

1. Request that Oldham Council works collaboratively with the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) and relevant partners to explore options for:
   1. Developing a multi-storey or expanded car park at or near Royal Oldham Hospital;
   2. Introducing fair and affordable parking arrangements for patients attending A&E, those with regular appointments, and NHS staff;
   3. Creating dedicated parking directly opposite the A&E department for patients attending A&E only;
   4. Improving access and facilities for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.
2. Write to the Chief Executive of the NCA and the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB) expressing this Council’s support for urgent improvements to parking provision at Royal Oldham Hospital.
3. Request that Oldham’s Members of Parliament lobby the national government and publicly support a campaign for better parking provision for Oldham residents attending Royal Oldham Hospital.

Motion 2:Strengthening Standards and Transparency for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

To be Moved by Councillor Hindle

To be Seconded by Councillor Hince

At its meeting of 16^th July 2025, this Council resolved to implement an Article 4 Direction in relation to small HMOs, this Direction will come into effect on 1^st January 2026, meaning planning applications must be made to convert a dwelling-house (C3) to a House in Multiple Occupation (C4).

The Housing Act 2004 and The Licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations 2018 define an HMO and set out the framework of Licensing responsibilities that sit with local authorities.

This motion is the next step in raising standards for HMOs in the Borough of Oldham, sending a clear message to residents and landlords that we take our duties and responsibilities seriously, and that we want the highest standards permitted by legislation.

This Council notes:

The persistent concerns raised by residents regarding substandard living conditions, overcrowding, fire safety risks, and poor management practices in some HMOs. That while statutory standards  ...  view the full agenda text for item 11.

Motion 1: Improving Parking Provision at Royal Oldham Hospital

Councillor Chauhan MOVED and Councillor Brownridge SECONDED the following Motion:

This Council notes:

• That Royal Oldham Hospital provides essential health services for thousands of Oldham residents every week, including emergency, maternity, and specialist care.
• That patients, visitors, and NHS staff frequently report serious difficulties finding parking spaces at and around the hospital site.
• That parking shortages lead to missed or delayed appointments, added stress for patients and families, and unfair parking fines for staff and visitors.
• That the hospital’s current car park layout cannot meet the increasing demand from both hospital users and staff.

This Council believes:

• That access to healthcare should not be made more stressful by inadequate or unaffordable parking.
• That a multi-storey car park or other expanded parking solution would significantly improve accessibility and patient experience without consuming additional land.
• That NHS staff, particularly those working long or unsociable hours, should have access to safe and affordable parking.
• That dedicated and accessible parking should be available for people with mobility issues and wheelchair users.

This Council therefore resolves to:

1. Request that Oldham Council works collaboratively with the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) and relevant partners to explore options for:
   1. Developing a multi-storey or expanded car park at or near Royal Oldham Hospital.
   2. Introducing fair and affordable parking arrangements for patients attending A&E, those with regular appointments, and NHS staff.
   3. Creating dedicated parking directly opposite the A&E department for patients attending A&E only.
   4. Improving access and facilities for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.
2. Write to the Chief Executive of the NCA and the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB) expressing this Council’s support for urgent improvements to parking provision at Royal Oldham Hospital.
3. Request that Oldham’s Members of Parliament lobby the national government and publicly support a campaign for better parking provision for Oldham residents attending Royal Oldham Hospital.

AMENDMENT:

Councillor Quigg addressed Council and announced that he was WITHDRAWING his AMENDMENT to the MOTION that was to be seconded by Councillor Ball. Council consented to this course of action.

On being put to the vote the MOTION was CARRIED.

RESOLVED:

That this Council resolves to:

1.    Request that Oldham Council works collaboratively with the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) and relevant partners to explore options for:

2.    Write to the Chief Executive of the NCA and the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB) expressing this Council’s support for urgent improvements to parking provision at Royal Oldham Hospital.

3. Request that Oldham’s Members of Parliament lobby the national government and publicly support a campaign for better parking provision for Oldham residents attending  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11.

(time limit 30 minutes)

Motion 1: Tackling the Anti-Social Use of Off-Road Motorbikes, E-Bikes and E-Scooters

To be Moved by Councillor Williamson

To be Seconded by Councillor Marland

There has been a national spike in the anti-social use of off-road motorcycles, e-bikes, and scooters on UK roads and in public places.

And whilst there are trial schemes for e-bikes and e-scooters operating in Greater Manchester it is illegal for some vehicles and those not in trial schemes to be used on public highways and in public spaces.

There is a myth that the Police cannot do anything which is not true. The Police will act even when riders are not wearing helmets but only in a targeted approach made by trained officers. In fact, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has a dedicated team of Officers.

This Council Acknowledges:

• That Greater Manchester Police’s resources are finely stretched, and that Oldham Council cannot just ask for GMP to put resources into Oldham without a strongly evidenced basis. 
• Oldham Council recognises that GMP officers will use up-to-date intelligence to help direct them to areas of concern. Recent successes have been seen with Operation Vulcan and Operation AVRO - Oldham must do its bit to help the Police.

• Most motorbike, e-bike, scooter riders, use their vehicles in a safe and considerate manner and abide by the law. Sadly, there are those that don’t, and this poses a serious risk to not only themselves, but other road users also. 
• People can easily purchase e-bikes or e-scooters blissfully unaware they are not intended for use on the public highway or in public spaces having a logic that ‘if they weren’t legal, they wouldn’t sell them.’
• That Oldham Council must work more closely with communities and organisations to generate a campaign to advise our residents of how and when to report issues.
• Oldham Council must continue working alongside GMP, housing providers, other partners and communities to get a message out that is clear about what constitutes an irresponsible user so that those who pose no threat to others carry on enjoying them sensibly and legally, and those that are not can be dealt with appropriately

This Council is aware that:

• Criminals are also using these modes of transport to commit further crimes, including drug supply, burglary, and theft. The anti-social use of these vehicles causes misery within our communities, impacting on the quality of life and posing a danger to those using the region’s roads and open spaces.

·       This Council believes that:
Working closely with residents and partners not just the Police is key to tackling this behaviour.

• Greater Manchester Police officers will use up-to-date intelligence to help direct them to areas of concern to deter, detect and disrupt offences from taking place.

This Council resolves to:

1.    Write to the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police Sir Stephen Watson QPM thanking him, the Officers and staff of GMP and the National Police Air Service (NPAS) for their continued hard work and dedication in tackling the anti-social use  ...  view the full agenda text for item 12.

Motion 1: Tackling the Anti-Social Use of Off-Road Motorbikes, E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Councillor Williamson MOVED and Councillor Marland SECONDED the following Motion:

There has been a national spike in the anti-social use of off-road motorcycles, e-bikes, and scooters on UK roads and in public places.

And whilst there are trial schemes for e-bikes and e-scooters operating in Greater Manchester it is illegal for some vehicles and those not in trial schemes to be used on public highways and in public spaces.

There is a myth that the Police cannot do anything which is not true. The Police will act even when riders are not wearing helmets but only in a targeted approach made by trained officers. In fact, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have a dedicated team of Officers.

This Council Acknowledges:

• That Greater Manchester Police’s resources are finely stretched, and that Oldham Council cannot just ask for GMP to put resources into Oldham without a strongly evidenced basis. 
• Oldham Council recognises that GMP officers will use up-to-date intelligence to help direct them to areas of concern. Recent successes have been seen with Operation Vulcan and Operation AVRO - Oldham must do its bit to help the Police.

• Most motorbike, e-bike, scooter riders, use their vehicles in a safe and considerate manner and abide by the law. Sadly, there are those that don’t, and this poses a serious risk to not only themselves, but other road users also. 
• People can easily purchase e-bikes or e-scooters blissfully unaware they are not intended for use on the public highway or in public spaces having a logic that ‘if they weren’t legal, they wouldn’t sell them.’
• That Oldham Council must work more closely with communities and organisations to generate a campaign to advise our residents of how and when to report issues.
• Oldham Council must continue working alongside GMP, housing providers, other partners and communities to get a message out that is clear about what constitutes an irresponsible user so that those who pose no threat to others carry on enjoying them sensibly and legally, and those that are not can be dealt with appropriately

This Council is aware that:

• Criminals are also using these modes of transport to commit further crimes, including drug supply, burglary, and theft. The anti-social use of these vehicles causes misery within our communities, impacting on the quality of life and posing a danger to those using the region’s roads and open spaces.

·       This Council believes that:
Working closely with residents and partners not just the Police is key to tackling this behaviour.

• Greater Manchester Police officers will use up-to-date intelligence to help direct them to areas of concern to deter, detect and disrupt offences from taking place.

This Council resolves to:

1.    To write to the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police Sir Stephen Watson QPM thanking him, the Officers and staff of GMP and the National Police Air Service (NPAS) for their continued hard work and dedication in tackling the anti-social use of these vehicles and ask  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

The Council is requested to determine a Scheme for Members’ Allowances following consideration of a report of an Independent Remuneration Panel convened in accordance with the Local Authorities (Members’ Allowances) (England) Regulations 2003.

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONDED a report of the Executive Director of Resources, which advised that the Council was required to determine a Scheme for Members’ Allowances following consideration of a report of an Independent Remuneration Panel convened in accordance with the Local Authorities (Members’ Allowances) (England) Regulations 2003.

On 24^th April 2025, the Independent Remuneration Panel met to consider a review of the Members’ Allowances Scheme which involved looking at benchmarking data from other local authorities and changes within the political arrangements of the council. The Panel also considered proposals to amend the allowance for Independent Members/Persons appointed to the Audit Committee and Standards Committee.

The Panel further met on 21^st August 2025, as a result of a review of Members’ allowances which was instructed by the Chief Executive, the outcome of which was subject to a separate report to the Audit Committee, on 22^nd October 2025. Whilst the investigation outcome fell outside of the remit of the Remuneration Panel, the Panel were asked to consider the impact in relation to basic allowance and special responsibility allowances, as their previous recommendations were based on incorrect information, which was the reason why the Panel’s original report was not presented to the July Council meeting.

Whilst the Council has a duty to have regard to the Panel’s recommendations, it is the Council’s choice whether to accept the Panel’s recommendations in whole or in part, or not at all, or to determine any other scheme for 2025/2026.

RESOLVED:

1.             That Council notes the report of the Independent Remuneration Panel, and approves its recommendations, as set out in Appendix 1, attached thereto and adopts the scheme of allowances as set out in Appendix 2, to the submitted report, for the municipal year 2025/26, effective from 1^st April 2025.

2.             That Council delegates authority to the Assistant Director of Governance in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Director of Legal (Monitoring Officer) to:

(i) take all necessary action to implement 1 above.

(ii) update the constitution.

(iii) to establish an Independent Remuneration Panel to review the scheme of allowances for implementation of the revised scheme from April 2026.

3.             That the Independent Remuneration Panel be thanked for its report.

To consider Oldham Council’s Annual report – 2024/25

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONDED the Oldham Council Annual Report 2024/25, which marked the first opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the launch of the Borough’s Corporate Plan 2024–2027. The Annual Report highlighted the difference the Council has made over the past year – from delivering better services and investing in neighbourhoods, to supporting residents and businesses through change. The Annual report was designed to celebrate success, show how the Council’s priorities are being turned into action, and give a clear picture of the positive impact the Authority is making for Oldham.

The Oldham Council Annual Report 2024/25 reflected on the first year of delivering the Corporate Plan 2024–2027. It captured the progress made against our priorities and highlighted how the Council was working to make a real difference for residents, communities and businesses. Achievements over 2024/25 included progress on the regeneration of Oldham town centre, the delivery of new housing, improvements to frontline services, and investment in cleaner, greener initiatives that supported the Council’s climate ambitions.

RESOLVED:

That the Oldham Council Annual Report 2024/25 be noted.

To consider the Leading Oldham Partnership Impact Report for 2024/25.

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONDED a report of the Executive Director of Resources, which presented the Leading Oldham Partnership Impact Report 2024/25, showcasing the progress that the Council and partners have made since the launch of Pride, Progress, Partnership in 2024. The document captures the real impact of shared ambitions and highlighted achievements across the Borough’s communities, the economy and public services, while being honest about the challenges being faced. By bringing partners and residents into one story of change, the report helped the Council to celebrate its success, to learn from experience, and to focus energies on the various opportunities ahead.

The Leading Oldham Partnership Impact Report 2024/25 captured the progress made in the first year of delivering Pride, Progress, Partnership. It highlights how partners across the borough have worked together to make Oldham a great place to live, grow and thrive. Examples of what’s been achieved range from major regeneration projects in the town centre and new housebuilding, to initiatives that support people directly in their day-to-day lives.

RESOLVED:

1.    That Council notes the content of the Leading Oldham Partnership Impact Report 2024/25.

2.    That Council acknowledges the continued work of the partnership to improve the Borough.

The Council is requested to approve the Oldham Children, Young People and Families Plan 2025/26.

Councillor Mushtaq MOVED and Councillor Mohon Ali SECONDED a report of the Executive Director of Children’s Services, which presented the Oldham Children, Young People and Families Plan 2025/26. THE Plan had previously been considered by the Children’s Achieving Excellence Board, the Oldham Safeguarding Children Partnership and the Children and Young People Scrutiny Board, all of which had recommended its approval. The Plan required formal Council approval.

RESOLVED:

That the Oldham Children, Young People and Families Plan 2025/26, as detailed in full at Appendix 1, to the submitted report, be approved.

To update on recent changes that affect the Council’s political balance.

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONED a report of the Executive Director of Resources, which advised that since the Council meeting, held on 16^th July 2025, the Chief Executive received notification, on Friday 12^th September 2025, that Councillors Ball, Quigg and Wilkinson will henceforth sit as Reform UK Members and Monday, 6^th October that Councillors Adams and Arnott had joined the Conservative Group. 

Considering this, the Council was asked to review the political composition of committees and to note the composition of the political groups as previously notified under Regulation 8 (1) of the Local Government (Committees and Political Groups) Regulations 1990 and under Section 15 and 16 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 for the remainder of the 2025/26 municipal year.

RESOLVED:

1.    That the revised composition of the political groups as shown in paragraph 1.1, of the submitted report, be noted.

2.    That the number of seats on the various Committees for the remainder of the 2025/26 Municipal Year be as detailed in paragraph 1.5, of the submitted report, be noted.

3.    That any outstanding appointments to be delegated to the Chief Executive in accordance with the wishes of the relevant political group.

Council is requested to appoint a second Independent Member of the Audit Committee.

Councillor Jabbar MOVED and Councillor Shah SECONDED a report of the Executive Director of Resources that sought to appoint a second independent member of the Audit Committee, for a four year term concluding at the end of the municipal year 2029, that authority be delegated to the Chief Executive to finalise the conditions of appointment to this role and that the second Independent Member be appointed to the position of Vice Chair of the Audit Committee.

AMENDMENT

Councillor Kenyon MOVED and Councillor Al-Hamdani SECONDED an AMENDMENT to the report, as set out in the Supplementary Agenda papers, as follows:

a.    To delete Recommendation 2:  "That the second Independent Member be appointed to the position of Vice Chair of the Audit Committee." 

b.    To amend section 3.1, of the report, as follows:  "To accept the recommendation to appoint to the position (and to delete the wording …”and that the second Independent Member be appointed as Vice Chair of the Audit Committee”.

On being put to the VOTE the AMENDMENT was LOST.

On being put to the Vote the MOTION was CARRIED.

RESOLVED:

1.    That Mr. Stuart Green be appointed as the second independent member of the Audit Committee, for a four-year term ending at the end of the municipal year 2029, and that authority be delegated to the Chief Executive to finalise the conditions of appointment for this role.

2.    That the second Independent Member be appointed to the position of Vice Chair of the Audit Committee.