​Final clear-up of former police HQ on its way

Plans to complete the demolition of the former police HQ in Irwell Street are set to be approved by council leaders.

The authority bought the empty building in 2013 with the aim of knocking it down and regenerating a vital part of the town centre.

However, demolition has been protracted due to the presence of asbestos, the proximity of the structure to residents’ houses, and that two different companies have been carrying out the demolition.

The original aim was to redevelop the site, including Castle Leisure Centre, with a major food store, using the proceeds to build a new leisure centre above the Q Park in Knowsley Street.

However, demand from supermarkets for such large sites is no longer there.

The council’s cabinet, at its meeting on 14 November, is being asked to agree a scheme to complete the demolition and clear the debris. This would begin early next year and take around six months to complete.

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “I’m sure that local residents will welcome the final clearance of this site, which has been delayed by factors beyond our control.

“This is a strategic site in our masterplan for the town centre, and we will be looking at the best opportunities to make the most of its location. This may include a mix of residential and leisure facilities, combining town centre living with new lifestyle choices, similar to what is being planned for The Uplands in Whitefield and at the Longfield Centre in Prestwich.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 8 November 2018.