Agenda item

Presentation from Councillor E O’Brien Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth attached, to be Supported by Robert Summerfield Director of Regeneration and Project Delivery

Councillor O'Brien, the Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth, presenting the appendices and policy proposals. He provided a brief overview of the presentation and then invited Rob Summerfield, the Director of Regeneration, to give an update on the regeneration sites.

Rob Summerfield started by acknowledging the significant progress being made across various sites. He emphasized that there is a lot happening at different stages and places, and the Council is trying to adopt a place-based approach to regeneration. This approach aims to instil confidence that the projects will move forward effectively.

One of the key projects discussed was the Open Fund project, which received funding from central government. This project includes the Bury market canopy scheme, which is now on site. The new market structures have made a significant visual impact, and the demolition of associated buildings is progressing well. The project is expected to be completed by the end of spring next year, with the flexible building next door planned to be an event and retail space by the third quarter of 2026.

Rob highlighted the challenges faced with utility companies, particularly in moving and redirecting utilities. He mentioned significant issues on both the Heywood and Radcliffe sites but noted that the Council has managed to address these problems effectively. The Radcliffe Hub Leisure Centre project, which includes a library and community facility, is well advanced. The frame is now complete, despite encountering an unidentified sewer that required quick action and lobbying by politicians to facilitate a build-over agreement.

The discussion then moved to the Millgate area development. The Council has a joint venture to develop the shopping centre, which is trading well above pre-pandemic levels. However, retail trends are changing, and the asset needs to be adjusted to fit modern retail uses. The strategic regeneration framework for the Millgate area was considered by members, and significant reconfiguration of retail elements is planned to ensure sustainability.

Another important project is the Pyramid Park housing development. The Council has secured grant money for site remediation and addressing biodiversity issues. Remediation work is scheduled for this year, followed by marketing for housing development next year. This project is key because it is adjacent to the interchange and must be developed in line with it.

Rob also mentioned various road improvement schemes funded through the city region central transport settlement and housing schemes discussed at the meeting. These include Green Street School and St E, with wider allocations for housing made through the regional spatial strategy. The Council has aspirations for employment at the Bradley Gold Asset Council homes, which is an old asset generating significant income.

The discussion then turned to the Council's corporate strategy and asset management. The regeneration mission is closely linked to the corporate strategy, and significant progress has been made over the last five years. The Council has implemented a corporate landlord model to manage assets and buildings effectively. This includes combining asset management and facilities management teams, implementing a corporate compliance regime, and investing in facilities and integrating systems like Concerto and Unit 4.

Councillor O'Brien discussed the importance of integrating buses and trams and the need for frequent feeder buses from outlying parts. The Council is actively lobbying for additional services and changes to the existing network to improve accessibility for the elderly and disabled.

The Northern Gateway project was also a key topic of discussion. This project aims to attract advanced manufacturing companies and create employment opportunities. The Council is working on master planning, transport infrastructure, and utilities to unlock the site's full potential. The project is complex and long-term, but the Council is confident in its ability to deliver it successfully.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the strategic direction of the regeneration projects and the importance of aligning various initiatives to achieve the Council's goals. Councillor O'Brien emphasized the need for continued collaboration and investment to ensure the successful delivery of the projects.

It Was Agreed:

·         The update be noted