Township devolution proposals

Council Leader Alan Taylor, Council Chief Executive Roger Ellis & Townhsips Portfolio Holder Councillor Keith Swift

In a major council reorganisation, and a bold move that shows Rochdale leading the way nationally in extending democratic control, plans to devolve power to the four Townships -  Heywood, Littleborough, Middleton and Rochdale - are well advanced. Under the devolved powers each Township Committee will become more powerful, making more decisions that affect the people in their respective Townships.

Power that is being devolved includes more control over parks, greater powers over roads, streets lights, pavements, etc. Community centres, leisure projects, libraries and more.  The Townships will also have more of a say on housing, development, refuse collection, including recycling, schools and revenues and benefits. 

In Heywood, Littleborough and Middleton there are plans to build new new ‘Town Halls’, a focal point for access to Council Services.

Leader of Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council, Alan Taylor, said: “These are really exciting proposals which will really change the way Council Services are delivered.  We have put trust in local decision making at the top of our agenda.  As many decisions as possible will be delegated to Township level, making them stronger and more vibrant.”