Middleton in step for more beautiful walkways

Improvements will be made to the retaining wall next to Middleton library and Jubilee Park

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Middleton’s status as a heritage destination is in line for a boost, with £1.45m worth of improvements set to take place in and around the historic Long Street area.

The council scheme to resurface sections of pavement in Long Street, alongside parts of Rochdale Road and Market Place, will complement the ongoing Middleton Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

The THI, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Rochdale Borough Council, aims to enhance the town’s heritage by restoring many of its historical features, including buildings designed by the early 20th century architect Edgar Wood, many of which are in the areas set to be revamped.

Councillor June West, Chair of the Middleton Township, said: “The THI scheme has enabled Middleton to realise its great potential as an attractive town with a fascinating past, but it’s important that the surrounding areas do justice to these historical treasures. This work will really set off these great buildings as well as creating a more attractive environment for residents, shoppers and local businesses.”

The work, which starts in the next few weeks, will involve replacing much of the current paving with traditional York stone. The stone is known for its quality and traditional appearance, being used in high profile areas including Trafalgar Square in London, and closer to home, in Yorkshire Street, Rochdale.

Repairs will also be made to the retaining wall at Jubilee Park next to Middleton Library and sections of railings at the site will be reinstated. The work will provide an additional boost to the library, which itself recently benefitted from a £450,000 revamp.

The scheme is expected to be completed in summer 2016 and there is likely to be minimal disruption, with all businesses and homeowners being notified and work set to stop during the Christmas trading period in December. Pedestrian and vehicle access will be maintained throughout.