Ramsbottom town plan moves to next stage

Plans to improve the heart of Ramsbottom have received a vote of confidence from local residents and businesses.

Nearly 500 people took the opportunity to comment on the plans during a six-week consultation period in January and February – and three-quarters of them said they agreed with the general proposals.

Further consultation will be carried out as and when individual projects are designed and developed in more detail.

Councillor Kevin Thomas, deputy cabinet member with responsibility for the Ramsbottom Town Plan, said: “I’m delighted that so many people viewed the plans and took the time to submit their views.

“Although Ramsbottom town centre has performed relatively well over the last few years, it is important that we are able to build on its strengths and ensure it remains a popular place to live in, work in and visit.”

The proposals include:

• a new public square and events space.
• better-connected streets and pedestrianised areas.
• improved travel via pedestrian and cycle links, connecting green spaces and amenities to the town centre such as Nuttall Park and new links to the river frontage.
• a new enterprise centre using Market Chambers and the vacant upper floor of the Civic Hall to provide accommodation for self-employed, freelance businesses and business start-ups.
• a car parking strategy.

In the consultation exercise, respondents said the key priorities for Ramsbottom town centre were: retaining the independent retail offer; retaining the food and drink offer; measures to help address car parking issues; and improving the quality of the streets and public spaces.

The overarching themes that received the most support were: supporting businesses; new and improved public spaces; and improved/new car parking arrangements.

During the consultation process, people were also invited to make detailed comments about the current situation and make additional suggestions.

Comments ranged from the need for public toilets and improved bus services, to traffic congestion and parking, and the condition of the roads and pavements.

Cllr Thomas added: “As a result of these comments, some changes to the plan have been made. We have also clarified that there are no proposals to restrict vehicle movements, following concerns from businesses around deliveries.

“The Ramsbottom Town Plan will help to guide the development of Ramsbottom over the short, medium and long term, with proposals brought forward as funding is identified and secured. Detailed designs will be required for each proposal, and these will be subject to further and more detailed consultation with stakeholders.

“In the meantime, we will continue to work on the plan and engage with local residents and businesses. This will help to ensure that we all play our part in keeping Ramsbottom a thriving place for may years to come.”