I start the year with a sense of excitement about the potential of a number of transformational local projects coming to fruition. Two of the most important impact the futures of both Stalybridge and Hyde town centres.
In Stalybridge, regeneration of the Civic Hall and the Astley Cheetham Gallery, two vital local assets are progressing. Most significantly architects have been awarded the contract for the design of the redevelopment of Stalybridge West behind the train station using the Levelling Up funds awarded to the Council. It is great to see this exciting project inch towards fruition that will bring a major new residential district, a new car park and a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Tame.
Alongside the public investment, there is also the exciting plans for the old clinic which feature a new river walkway. It feels like we’re finally getting things going on sufficient scale to begin to realise the enormous potential of the town centre this year.
In Hyde, we are further behind, but we are also heading in the right direction. With the Master Plan now in place, funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the High Street Task Force Accelerator Programme have been used to make the first steps in realising the Master Plan through remodelling of the marketplace, undertaking a deep clean of street furniture, regreening the town centre and enriching the cultural offer through regular events on the marketplace.
There is also the exciting plan for the old Poundstretcher building and (hopefully) a suitable proposal has been identified for the old library on Union Street.
I know progress is never as fast as we all want it to be – and the prevailing economic climate isn’t helpful – but I see a very positive future for all our town centres in Tameside and 2025 has a great potential to be a major step towards that future.