New plans for Whitefield town centre now ready for inspection

Residents and businesses are being asked for their views on the latest plans to improve Whitefield town centre.

The latest draft proposals follow visits from the Government’s High Streets Task Force, and put forward ideas for regeneration and change led by local people.

To read the plans and have your say, go to https://www.bury.gov.uk/planning-building-control/regeneration/whitefield-town-centre-plan.

Drop-in events are also taking place at Morrisons on Friday 2 February (10am to 1pm) and on Saturday 3 February (12pm to 3pm).

The deadline for submitting views is Friday 16 February.

The council is also arranging meetings with particular stakeholder groups, such as the Blind Society. Please contact whitefieldplan@bury.gov.ukto speak with the project team.

Among the proposals contained in the draft plan are:

• To relocate GP and health services from the deteriorating Uplands medical centre to the former Whitefield Library site
• Making Whitefield town centre easier to navigate, including the possible redesign of Bury New Road, and installing new crossings and signage to help walkers, cyclists and public transport users
• Creating a new Family Hub. These hubs host organisations who provide support to families with babies, children and young people from birth until they reach the age of 19 (or up to 25 for young people with special educational needs and disabilities). Services include support for physical and mental health issues, housing and debt advice, and charities.

Councillor Gareth Staples-Jones, Bury Council’s deputy lead for strategic growth, said: “As part of our LET’S do it strategy these proposals have been drafted following input from local businesses, residents and community representatives. The council is here to represent local people and the key to success in any project like this is listening to and acting on what local people want to see in their town.

“We’re all committed to making Whitefield an attractive place to live, work and visit. The town plan will help us join the dots and make this happen. Please take part in the consultation and play your part. By having your say, we can all shape the future of Whitefield.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 22 January 2024.