Councillor urges council not to miss out on extra investment

Councillor Pat Colclough has called on Rochdale Council to submit a bid to the Government for a new funding stream – which she believes would be perfect for the Kirkholt Gateway Project.

The Growing Places Fund, which was recently announced by Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander MP, has set aside £500m to help stimulate local jobs and the economy.

The intention is for the fund to prioritise schemes which aim to provide specific pieces of infrastructure, which will in turn enable wider developments to take place.

Councillor Colclough, said: “From what I understand, this new funding stream is very much for local areas to determine their priorities and bid for the funding they require.

“This would be perfect for Kirkholt’s Gateway Project.

“From this project the money could be recycled to help wider regeneration aspects such at the crucial redevelopment of the central Strand shopping area.”

She added: “This fund is the perfect opportunity to receive up-front capital to help our Council and developers take schemes forward. I am sure there are many other areas across our Borough that may also benefit from a bid.”

Andy Zuntz, Executive Director, Rochdale Borough Council said: “We are planning to submit a bid and will be taking a set of proposals to members.

“This will include all project suggestions we receive.”