Residents asked for their views on the vision for Middleton

The council has launched a public consultation on the draft Middleton masterplan to gather feedback before a final version is created.

Residents and businesses can give their views either online, by email or by post. The survey asks a number of questions to seek an understanding of whether there is an agreement with the principles in the plan, if there is support for the suggested improvements, and whether all aspects have been fully considered, among other things.

A series of public events is also planned that will allow residents to attend and discuss the masterplan in detail and to present their thoughts on how the council should proceed with work in Middleton town centre.

Upcoming events include a pop up on Tuesday 1 November between 10am to 4pm at Middleton Library and 3pm to 7pm at Middleton Arena. A further pop up will be held between 10am to 12pm on Saturday 5 November at Middleton Arena.

You will be able to view proposals, provide comments and have the opportunity to participate in guided tours including an architecture walk with Stephen Marland starting at Middleton Library, Tuesday 1 November 5pm to 6.30pm, and a nature walk with Alison Cooper, starting at Middleton Library, Saturday 5 November 12pm to 2pm.

To sign up to attend either event in advance: go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk. For the architecture walk search for “a modern mooch” or for the nature walk search for “nature walk Middleton”.

Councillor John Blundell, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “The council has set out a vision for Middleton town centre, we believe will add significantly to the work that has already been done over the past 15 years.

“We would really appreciate our residents engaging with us so that we can deliver a final plan to improve Middleton that really works for the benefit of everyone.”

The draft Middleton masterplan is a completely new look and rethink of what the vision should be for Middleton town centre. It focuses on regeneration through new developments and how connectivity can be improved by prioritising walking and cycling.

It strikes a balance between future growth and maintaining the special character of Middleton, acting as a strategic framework for the delivery of infrastructure and development projects.

Overall, the focus is on enhancing the town to give it a sense of place in making it attractive to live, work and visit with ease of access. The council has put forward a series of frameworks in the plan to achieve this which underpin the underlying vision and priorities.

The council has already secured funding to support the preparation of the masterplan.  Once a final plan is in place this will be used by the council to support further bids for regeneration funding. 

The consultation is running until 9 November.

To access the consultation online: https://consultations.rochdale.gov.uk/research/middleton-masterplan/

To give your comments by post: Strategic Planning, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 1XU.

By email: LDF.consultation@rochdale.gov.uk