Oldham Rising: Leadership, Legacy and Local Challenges with Arooj Shah

In this episode we sit down with Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, to explore the borough’s bold regeneration plans, recent service improvements, and the challenges of modern civic leadership. Arooj shares her personal journey into politics, the values driving her leadership, and how Oldham is tackling identity politics, financial pressures, and community cohesion head-on. Listeners will gain insight into:The transformation of Oldham’s town centre and housing strategyImprovements in children’s services and future ambitionsNavigating political turbulence and building resilienceTackling budget constraints while protecting vulnerable residentsArooj’s vision for inclusive leadership and community empowermentThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in local government innovation, leadership under pressure, and the future of place-based transformation.