Brabners advises North West council on selection of development partner for major regeneration project

The development team at law firm Brabners has advised Oldham Council on a procurement process that saw Muse selected as the local authority’s development partner to bring forward what has been described as a “transformational” new neighbourhood in the town.

Muse is to create 2,000 new mixed-tenure homes as part of the regeneration project.

Roy Barry, Brabners’ head of development, said: “Oldham’s regeneration is a hugely significant moment for the borough and will go a long way to enhancing the community for future generations.”

“Ambitious local authorities and plans like this are one of the key reasons why Greater Manchester is as a key target for UK and US investors — as outlined by our Northern Investment Index report.”

Barry added: “The scheme itself — another northern initiative with national significance — is perfectly in keeping with our purpose-led approach and we look forward to supporting its future progress.

“We managed to conclude the detailed legal dialogue in just seven months. That is fast on a project of this scale and complexity. It demonstrates how our team is quick to deliver positive outcomes in public procurement for regeneration, which can sometimes suffer from slow and cumbersome processes."

Commenting on the partnership with Muse, Cllr Arooj Shah — leader of Oldham Council — said: “I’m thrilled that we are forging ahead with these exciting, ambitious and truly game-changing plans to create a town centre for future generations to live in, work in and enjoy — and I’m also so pleased that Muse, headed up by a passionate Oldhamer, will be our partner.”

Phil Mayall, managing director (North West) at Muse, said: “We’re at the start of our journey with the council and we’re very much looking forward to getting out in the community as soon as we're able, as we build a brighter future for Oldham, together.”