​Cabinet backs strategic vision for Radcliffe

Bury Council’s cabinet has backed a new vision for Radcliffe aimed at transforming the town for generations to come.

Members approved the ambitious plans set out in the Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) to attract investment in skills and jobs the environment and civic/leisure facilities.

The council will now enter a formal six-week consultation period with residents, businesses and all interested parties on 22 June. Every household in Radcliffe will receive a leaflet about the SRF, with details of how they can have their say during the consultation.

The SRF sets out proposals for the short, medium and long-term regeneration of the town to encourage investment and growth. Significantly, council investment will act as a lever to bring in investment from the private sector and support bids to the Government for more funding, providing certainty and confidence for investors

Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said: “Agreeing the plans set out in this Strategic Regeneration Framework is a crucial step towards unlocking Radcliffe’s fantastic potential and delivering a town centre that people deserve and will take pride in.

“Radcliffe residents will be receiving a leaflet about the consultation, and I urge you to take part.”

The plans were approved by the council’s cabinet on Wednesday (10 June).

Key areas identified in the Framework include:

• A central public hub – with retail, offices, civic space and cafes
• New leisure facilities – to sit alongside the public hub and help improve people’s health
• Refurbishment of Market Chambers building – providing flexible space for activities, community groups, and start-up businesses
• Opening up the river – improving the river walkway and a new riverside public space
• Focused retail strategy – for both the daytime and evening economy
• Cultural initiatives – possibly a permanent base, and celebrating Radcliffe’s heritage;
• Revised car parking strategy – with emphasis on sustainable travel such as public transport, walking and cycling
• Public realm improvements – especially around the Piazza, civic spaces and key routes such as Blackburn Street
• A new secondary school – news is expected shortly from the Government about the planned new secondary school. If approved, this will play a key role in improving educational attainment and providing a sense of pride in the town. It will also mean young people will not have to travel to schools outside the town
• Housing – building a variety of new houses on brownfield land, including affordable homes for young families;
• Infrastructure – including transport, digital technology to sustain economic growth and ‘green’ energy
• Employment – to create job opportunities in the town centre, from small start-up businesses to larger employers

Significant funding will be required to ensure that these projects are delivered. The local authority is looking at creating a Council Investment

Fund to lever in outside funding to support major investment areas including Radcliffe town centre.

Cllr Rhyse Cathcart, deputy cabinet member for Radcliffe Regeneration, added: “The feedback we have had over recent years is that people in Radcliffe want confidence that plans are backed up by action. Therefore, having a dedicated team focused around delivery, backed up by a Council Investment Fund, is a great way to show we are serious about making progress once the consultation is concluded.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 12 June 2020.