It was great to be able to show Historic England around Stalybridge recently. Historic England’s Heritage Action Zone was one of the first bits of funding we obtained to begin work on the public realm improvements and investment in the Civic Hall. We had a great walkabout and it proved a good chance to review where we’re at with the regeneration programme.

This stage of the public realm improvements on Market Street is now finished, and the next phase will continue down towards the station and up Melbourne Street. Already three businesses have applied for pavement licences, which will bring increased footfall and a continental feel to the area, fast becoming a little foodie capital of Stalybridge. There is also interest in the old café opposite the People’s Gallery.

The bingo hall canopy on Market Street will be painted within the next few weeks, as will the War Memorial/Post Office bridge. These tidy-ups are an important step in generating pride in the area.

The work on the Civic Hall roof is nearly complete, and the interior should be finished by late Summer. Network Rail’s work on Stalybridge railway bridge is also coming along well. They are also committed to remodelling the current pavement access and parking arrangements in front of the station. The bigger project I am keen on – opening up an access on the other side of the station at the base of the subway that takes you up to platforms 1,2, and 3– is still being looked at.

The plans for the big housing project, new bridge and multi-storey car park on Castle Street and Caroline Street are also progressing well. We’re likely approximately two years away from construction beginning. This will create much needed homes and drive further footfall There is also the possibility of a residential development on the Piccadilly Parking site, and the exciting plans for the old clinic site and river walkway have already been approved.

It has been agreed that the ever-popular Stalybridge Street Fest will be back this year, and we are looking forward to attending the first one as a family on Friday 12^th April.

Overall, the picture for Stalybridge is really encouraging. With great levels of community engagement in the masterplan for Hyde, too, regeneration is on its way. Habits have changed over the years, but we deserve town centres that are lovely places to live, work, eat and shop. I’m committed to achieving that.