Plans to transform Radcliffe town centre have received a major boost with the news that Sir Howard Bernstein will be leading the project.
Sir Howard, chief executive of Manchester City Council from 1998 to 2017, will chair the board tasked with overseeing and delivering the range of improvements and attracting outside investment.
He is credited with Manchester’s rebirth following the 1996 IRA bomb, brokering Manchester City FC’s investment in east Manchester, championing the Metrolink and bringing the 2002 Commonwealth Games to the city.
Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said: “The transformation of Radcliffe town centre is one of our very top priorities. This project will regenerate key sites to ensure the future prosperity of the town and help to reduce inequalities for its residents.
“That’s why I’m delighted that Sir Howard has agreed to chair the board and help drive forward our ambitious plans. His experience is unmatched and to have a ‘big hitter’ like him on board will give all our partners confidence that our vision will become reality. As a resident of this borough too, he also knows what this regeneration will mean for residents and businesses in Radcliffe, and we can’t wait to get on with it.”
Joining Sir Howard on the board will be Cllr Eamonn O’Brien and Geoff Little, leader and chief executive of Bury Council; Bury South MP Christian Wakeford; agencies including Homes England, the Environment Agency, Transport for Greater Manchester and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority; plus private sector partners.
Sir Howard said: “As a resident of Bury I am very happy to support the council and residents at the start of the journey for transforming the town centre. We will be working hard over the coming months to shape real improvements which will provide the platform for long-term change and ensure that everyone who lives and works in Radcliffe will have a town centre which will once again become a vibrant and important part of their lives.”
