Funding secured for two major projects in the Rochdale borough

Almost £14m has been secured to fund two major projects in the Rochdale borough - the completion of the Kingsway Business Park Northern Loop Road (Michael Faraday Avenue) and phase one of the South Heywood link road.

The projects were put forward in a bid from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) because they can be delivered within less than 18 months - providing an immediate kick-start to the creation of new jobs in Greater Manchester’s growth sectors.

Kingsway Business Park is a 470-acre site next to Junction 21 of the M62. Kingsway is 60% of the way through its development period and when completed, it would open 9.75 hectares of land for development providing a potential 850 jobs.

The new Junction 19 link road is proposed to connect the existing motorway network with Hareshill Road leading on to Pilsworth Industrial Estate and other logistics sites. The scheme is part of a broader plan of development for the area that has met with opposition from local greenbelt groups.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/117400/controversial-south-heywood-greenbelt-development-approved

Rochdale Council leader, Allen Brett, said: “This is a welcome endorsement from national Government which speaks of their obvious confidence in Rochdale’s growth plan, as well as our borough’s proven track record in successfully delivering major regeneration projects.

“This substantial funding award will help us progress two major projects, which between them will create almost 3,500 jobs and more than 1,000 new homes. They will also bring vital new infrastructure into our borough and create a significant ongoing boost to our local economy, which will benefit our residents and businesses for many years to come.”

 

 

Speaking about the new funding commitment, Heywood and Middleton MP, Chris Clarkson said: “Heywood and Middleton will now be benefitting from even more Government funding for this project that will bring new prosperity and opportunities to the local economy by making brownfield and existing industrial sites more viable. I have been speaking to Ministers about the special circumstances that surround this project and the positive impact that it can have on local people, jobs and infrastructure if delivered correctly.

“I have spoken to many constituents who have daily worries about the increasing number of HGVs which are using unsuitable, residential streets and putting their homes and families at risk. With this substantial Government funding to help progress the new Junction 19 link road many thousands of HGV movements every year will be given direct access to existing industrial zones, instantly easing pressure on nearby residential streets, especially those in Heywood and Birch.

“Fewer HGVs in residential streets will also mean better air quality around the homes, schools and recreational spaces in this area. This is a really important health benefit for local people and one which can have an immediate impact on people’s lives and wellbeing.

Mr Clarkson added: “This funding is for phase one of the link road, which is an essential piece of infrastructure for existing commercial areas. I understand that there are still concerns about the use of additional areas of greenbelt land for industrial and housing development and these must be considered very carefully to ensure that we are delivering what is needed and right for the local economy without jeopardising the greenbelt.

“As the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) progresses with plans to develop greenbelt housing and industrial sites, I am continuing to work with local action groups to ensure that their concerns are heard both locally and at the highest levels of Government.”