Heywood town centre scheme presented to government

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 16:25

By George Lythgoe

A revitalised town square, civic centre and newly improved shopfronts are all in store for Heywood, once a multi-million-pound scheme gets the green light. The Rochdalian town is on its way to receiving a £20m boost, with the Pride in Place plan now submitted to the government by the Heywood Town Board.

Heywood has long been earmarked for cash as part of the government’s Pride in Place scheme, which was previously known as the Long Term Plan for Neighbourhoods. The money will only be released over a 10-year period once the government formally approves the board’s proposal.

The plan focuses on developing the local economy; environment and green spaces; celebrating the area’s heritage and identity and making people feel safer in their community.

Proposals include creating more activities and opportunities for young people; further enhancements to the town centre, including possible shop front improvement schemes; and creating more work and training opportunities.

The redevelopment of Heywood has already begun through the delivery of the Peine Square project, in front of Heywood Civic Centre. The revamped square is almost complete, with the introduction of performance spaces, planters and new seating all part of the £900,000 scheme.

It is expected to become a hub for public events with tiered seating; performance and exhibition areas; a mini stage; and a power supply. But this is the start of much more to come for Heywood residents.

The town board plans, developed with local people and followed a series of public engagement sessions, hope to build on the work around the civic centre. The board, a local group made up of residents, businesses, representatives from the council and local MP Elsie Blundell, will hear whether the plans have been given the green light in March next year.

The money is guaranteed, so if initial plans are not approved, the government will work with the board to make any changes needed.

Brian Davies, chair of the Heywood Town Board, said: “This bid has been developed with the local community, who have taken the time to share with us their thoughts about Heywood, a place they’re clearly passionate about. We’re confident that the government will like our proposals and the investment they have committed to will be transformative for Heywood.

“It’s a really exciting milestone we’ve reached with the submission of our plan and vision and we’re looking forward to updating the community as soon as we are able to.”

The town board will be launching a dedicated website in the new year, which will feature more information on the proposals submitted to the government for anyone who would like to find out more.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Julie Murphy named interim chief as councillors question five-week cover-up

Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive of Rochdale Council has sparked internal questioning, with Labour councillors raising concerns over a reported five-week delay in escalating serious allegations linked to her department.
Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site

Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site
Nod to area’s past as new 90-home ‘brownfield’ estate launches show homes

A new 90-home estate on a former school site is to be named Scholar’s Park.
Julie Murphy on the line up as interim chief executive at Rochdale Council

Documents seen by Roch Valley Radio confirm that Rochdale Council will be asked to approve Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive, following the suspension of James Binks.
Charity Santa’s sleigh run hit by online abuse from ‘shameful, entitled parents’

It’s a tradition bringing smiles, joy and cheer to hundreds of families in the run up to Christmas. But the volunteers behind Radcliffe Rotary Santa Sleigh run say they have been forced to endure ‘rude or inappropriate comments about their efforts’.
Flood alert issued for Rochdale and Bury as heavy rain continues across Greater Manchester

Residents warned to be prepared as river levels rise in wake of persistent rainfall.
Bury FC part company with Michael Jolley days after managerial appointment following backlash

Bury Football Club has confirmed that Michael Jolley has been relieved of his duties as first team manager by mutual consent just days after taking up the role.
A candid conversation at Roch Valley Radio with Colin Lambert on truth, trust and local media

On Saturday 6th December, I spent a couple of hours at Roch Valley Radio with Tim, Dave and Dean.
Rochdale Scouts to represent UK at World Scout Jamboree in Poland

Eleven young people from across Rochdale have been selected to represent the borough, and the UK, at the World Scout Jamboree 2027 in Gdańsk, Poland.
GMP cracks down on internal corruption in proactive investigation into officer misconduct

Eight officers and two staff under investigation over inappropriate contact with sex workers as Greater Manchester Police steps up efforts to root out those unfit to serve.
Rochdale Council launches consultation on changes to Council Tax Support Scheme

Proposed changes include lowering the maximum discount from 85% to 80% and reducing the number of income bands, as the council seeks to balance its budget amidst ongoing cuts to government funding.
Live music debuts at Theatre Royal with acclaimed Manchester act

Ramsbottom’s Theatre Royal has launched its first ever live music event, welcoming Manchester swing artist Dominic Halpin and the Honey B’s to a packed and appreciative audience.