Demolition of Regent Mill in Heywood to Facilitate Housing Regeneration

Rochdale Council has announced plans to demolish Regent Mill, an industrial complex located on St James Street in Heywood, as part of a broader regeneration initiative for the area. The demolition is expected to unlock opportunities for the construction of around 200 new homes, primarily aimed at providing affordable housing for local residents.

Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for regeneration and housing, stated that the demolition is a key component of the council's masterplan to transform brownfield sites around Heywood town centre. He emphasised the importance of replacing the deteriorating mill with high-quality social homes to address the local housing shortage and enhance the visual appeal of the area.

The council has not yet provided a timeline for the demolition or subsequent housing development. However, the project is part of a wider £20 million investment from the government's Pride in Place funding, which aims to improve local infrastructure and support businesses in the region. Recent improvements in Heywood town centre, including the completion of a new civic building and enhancements to Peine Square, are also part of this regeneration effort.

While the demolition is anticipated to bring positive changes, there are concerns from highways teams regarding potential damage to road surfaces during the process. Planning documents indicate that the site will be secured with fencing and debris netting to ensure pedestrian safety during the demolition.