Chris Hamilton, Roughyeds chief executive, said: "I was absolutely astonished by the decision and around Oldham reaction is the same. It’s something that was going to benefit the whole town. The development is something that this town genuinely needs. We have been speaking to Simon Corney on a regular basis and offering our support."
Cllr Dave Hibbert, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "I’m very disappointed that the application didn’t receive approval from the planning committee. We are supportive of the club’s efforts to regenerate that area and I will be doing everything I can to try and make progress on this matter as a priority."
John Battye, former leader of Oldham Council, said: "I was disappointed. I thought Oldham Athletic had worked extremely hard with residents and the council for a compromise which could benefit everybody – the hospital, the town, the stadium and the residents – but I don’t think all is lost. Discussions are ongoing and hopefully we will soon see that site approved for regeneration in a manner befitting a forward-looking, 21st century town."
Barry Owen, Trust Oldham director, said: "Our town is a disgrace when compared to those around with regard to social amenities. This was an opportunity to provide facilities for future generations and the lack of foresight by our councillors beggars belief. The towns around us and other clubs in the country striving to improve but without the means must be laughing at our negative thinking. The public really need to sit up and question the ability and thinking of our councillors. It deeply concerns me that the conduct of some councillors in that meeting differed tremendously from the statements and undertakings they had given beforehand."
Michael Meacher MP, Oldham West and Royton, said: "I’m very much in support of a new stadium but only with a level of development which is comfortable for local residents. I don’t think the two positions are unbridgeable, however, there has to be negotiations. The level of housing proposed is extremely high. There is a desperate need for affordable housing in Oldham where around 11,000 are on the waiting list, but this type of housing seems to be about maximising revenue to fund the stadium."
