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.
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