These shops were photographed by Robert Galeta in 1974.  When he took them he was aware that they were unlikely to survive for much longer.   He was right, some of these shops had gone by the time I did my survey 10 years on.  They now look very evocative of the time and show individual style.  Some of you may remember them from your youth.  

June 23

Here are some images that were made back in 1985/6. I have included a photo of the front gate to the Manox dyeworks because through a recent discussion with Rebecca Day and Ian Ilstone at Adactus Housing, I heard mention of the Blue Pigeon Group who makes reference to this works that no longer exists. Who are these men standing outside the gate?

I'm wondering if anyone has some information on this now empty building. It is in the Miles Platting area near the Rochdale Canal.  

June 17

Visited to Gallery Oldham to meet up with Sean Baggaley to discuss how I might progress the project from the Oldham end.  He has offered to send me details of people to contact regarding various ongoing projects and activities along the road and proposed that we set up another meeting with staff at the gallery who work on education, archive and community initiatives.  I'm hoping that they will be able to suggest contact groups and individuals who I could possibly liaise with to help get me started.

While there I also went upstairs to look at the historic panoramic photograph (a glass plate joiner) of the centre of Oldham showing the early industrial scene including the railway, gas works and coal mine and what are now traditional terraced housing being newly built.  So much detail even by today's standards.  

I have recently been offered access to some slides made by Robert Galetta who made a visit to the road back in the 1960's and photographed the shop fronts along the road.  At the time he was anticipating writing a novel about a fictitional band that was based in the area.  I hope to scan some of them and will publish on the blog.

June 10

1st visit to the area for some time.  I decided to just drive around for a bit and get my bearings.  My first impression is that there have been so many changes made that it was hard to recognize the place as I remembered it.  Many new houses and more gaps where businesses used to be. Billboard posters filling some of these new gaps but some of the terraces and particular buildings at junctions including the pubs still helped to orientate and remind me of the previous project. 

Visited the New East Manchester offices and met up with Lela Cribbin and Joe Williams (cultural regeneration officers) and we discussed how I might progress my project.  They are providing me with suggestions of community groups and schools for me to contact.  Also have an appointment to meet Rebecca Day next week at Adactus Housing, Miles Platting. I believe they have already been running some photography projects. 

June 9

I have just received funding confirmation from the Arts Council and will now be starting the project.  My first intention is to introduce myself to local resident groups through introductions suggested by New East Manchester and Gallery Oldham.  Please let me know if you have any suggestions.