Ellie Ames 19 December 2024

Police called amid row at town hall

Police called amid row at town hall image
Image: Copyright Lawrey / Shutterstock.com

Police officers were called to Oldham Council on Wednesday after a meeting was suspended when a row broke out.

Local media reported that references were made to ‘dictators’ and ‘Nazi sympathisers’, and that a protest was also taking place outside the civic centre.

Greater Manchester Police received reports of a disturbance from a member of the public at around 5.30pm.

A spokesperson for the force said: ‘Police are currently investigating reports of racially aggravated public order and enquiries into this remain ongoing.’

The row began as councillors discussed pulling out of the Greater Manchester ‘Places for Everyone’ housing scheme, with members speaking over each other and mayor Zahid Chauhan having to call for ‘silence’.

Taking to X after the meeting, council leader Arooj Shah said: ‘The behaviour by some of the elected members at the meeting of the full council was a step too far.’

She added: ‘I would urge those disruptive members to reflect on their behaviour and remember that we are all there to serve the people of Oldham.

‘We were unable to do that because the meeting had to be abandoned. This is disrespectful, not just to their fellow councillors, but also to the residents we represent.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Public Health

Royal Borough of Greenwich
Up to £131,210
The Public Health department is at the heart of the council’s business. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Head of Regeneration and Growth

Plymouth City Council
£68,387 - £74,411 (MFS and relocation available, pay award pending)
This is a unique opportunity to lead our award-winning development team and directly deliver hundreds of millions of pounds of projects. Plymouth, Devon
Recuriter: Plymouth City Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Wiltshire Council
£119,390 - £127,137
Join us as the Director of Adult Social Care and make a real difference to people’s lives. Wiltshire
Recuriter: Wiltshire Council

Assistant Director Planning, Performance & Engagement

East Sussex County Council
up to £97,700
With strong local communities, unspoilt countryside and vibrant coastal towns, East Sussex offers an exceptional quality of life to many. East Sussex
Recuriter: East Sussex County Council

Director of Finance & Commerce

Lancashire County Council
Up to £114,339
You will play a critical role in driving the organisation through complex change and innovation. Lancashire
Recuriter: Lancashire County Council
Linkedin Banner