NATURE’S NEW OASIS: BRITAIN’S LARGEST URBAN FARM OPENS IN OLDHAM

A Green Revolution in Oldham

On Saturday, 19 September 2026, a truly transformative chapter began for the North of England with the official opening of Northern Roots. Nestled directly adjacent to the existing landmark of Alexandra Park in Oldham, this sprawling expanse has officially staked its claim as the largest urban farm and eco-park in the United Kingdom. Spanning a vast 160 acres, the site represents the culmination of five years of dedicated development, turning what was once underused land into a vibrant, living landscape designed to nurture both the local community and the environment. This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when bold vision meets careful planning, creating a sanctuary that feels miles away from the urban bustle while remaining firmly rooted in the heart of the community.

The Power of Partnership

The story of Northern Roots is one of deep collaboration between Oldham Council and the Northern Roots charity. Supported by a significant £12.9 million investment in government funding, the project was brought to life with construction efforts led by Willmott Dixon. By repurposing vast swaths of land that had previously sat largely unused, the partnership has effectively rewritten the blueprint for urban regeneration. This was never intended to be merely a park, but rather a functional, breathing ecosystem that provides real-world benefits. From the outset, the goals were clear: to foster community health, elevate local biodiversity, and provide high-quality vocational training for residents who seek to build skills that are becoming increasingly vital in a greener economy.

Skills and Serenity

One of the most impressive features of the new site is the dedicated Forestry Skills Centre. This facility is a cornerstone of the project, offering vocational training that leads to technical and land-based qualifications. By bridging the gap between education and employment, Northern Roots is helping to build a new generation of workers equipped to manage and cherish our natural heritage. Beyond the classrooms and workshops, the park offers an array of experiences for every visitor. Whether one is looking to traverse the graded walking routes that wind through the greenery or test their mettle on the mountain biking trails, the site caters to a wide spectrum of fitness levels and interests. The landscape serves as a reminder that health and wellbeing are intrinsically linked to our ability to access and enjoy the outdoors, providing a natural escape that is now firmly woven into the fabric of daily life in Oldham.

A Hub for the Community

The infrastructure built across these 160 acres is designed for connection and celebration. At the heart of the site sits the new Welcome Building, a multifunctional space that hosts a café, a local shop, and a production kitchen. It serves as a warm entry point for families, walkers, and tourists alike, offering a place to refuel and gather after exploring the grounds. For those who enjoy the arts and communal life, the outdoor amphitheatre provides a stunning backdrop for performances, festivals, and various community events. This is a space built for everyone—from couples planning to celebrate weddings in a unique, nature-inspired setting, to students attending educational workshops that bring the theory of the classroom into the reality of the fields and forests. Every corner of the development has been considered to ensure that the site remains a dynamic hub, constantly evolving to meet the needs of the people it serves.

Looking Toward a Greener Future

The opening of Northern Roots marks a significant milestone for the entire UK, setting a high standard for how urban areas can integrate large-scale farming and ecological protection into the heart of a town. As we look ahead, the potential for this site to grow and mature is immense. By focusing on environmental education and land-based vocational training, the project is doing more than just improving the aesthetics of the landscape; it is actively improving the quality of life for the residents of Oldham. The commitment shown by the local council and the Northern Roots charity over the last half-decade has turned a vision of sustainable urban living into an accessible reality. In an age where the connection to nature is often strained by urban density, this 160-acre sanctuary offers a bright, optimistic path forward. It is a place where the community can learn, work, and play, all while surrounded by the rejuvenating power of the natural world. As the seasons change, the park will undoubtedly become an essential part of the region, providing a permanent, green legacy that will benefit generations to come.