Middleton Regeneration Plans Unveiled at Arena Event

A public event was held at Middleton Arena on September 7, where Greater Manchester's new mayor, Bev Craig, outlined her vision for Middleton's future. The event, attended by around 200 locals, aimed to showcase the town's regeneration plans. Craig was joined on stage by actor and comedian Steve Coogan, CEO of Co-operatives UK Rose Marley, and Rochdale council leader Neil Emmott.

The Middleton Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) was discussed at the event. The MDC plans to bring Metrolink trams to Middleton, create new homes on brownfield plots, and build high-quality business premises. Additionally, the corporation aims to improve public areas, roads, and pathways in the town. Craig stated that the regeneration plans are about doing things in a collective way, listening to what locals want, and delivering on those promises.

The 'Our Town, Our Future' project, which engaged with over 2,000 residents, found that locals want to see less antisocial behaviour, more shops on the high street, and visible investment in the town. Around a third of respondents expressed a desire to see Warwick Mill brought back into use. Craig pledged her support for the regeneration efforts, saying that the signs of regeneration won't be reduced to a single symbol, but rather will focus on addressing the concerns of Middleton residents.

The MDC plans to address the concerns of locals and deliver a brighter future for Middleton. With Craig's backing, the corporation will work to bring about positive change in the town. The event marked an important step in the regeneration process, as locals and officials came together to discuss the town's future.