Proposals to enhance Littleborough village centre are to be reviewed after concerns were raised by residents, local councillors and businesses during a public consultation.
A series of ideas on how to improve the area, particularly around key sites like the railway station, were presented to the public in late 2021.
Plans being explored include the redevelopment of under-utilised brownfield land around the centre for a small number of new homes, the refurbishment of the historic railway arches for new commercial uses, the introduction of an improved public realm and more sustainable travel links.
Concerns were raised about certain elements of Littleborough’s draft SPD during a public consultation on the document.
Now, the cabinet member for regeneration, Councillor John Blundell, along with Littleborough Lakeside councillors, has asked officers to review it and clarify these areas of concern. The new document will then go out to public consultation for a second time.
Councillor John Blundell, cabinet member for economy at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “What’s clearly come through on the consultation feedback is that there is some confusion about aspects of our plans for Littleborough. This has caused understandable concern in the area and we’re keen to put that right. These are really important issues for local residents and businesses, so we will reshape these plans to clarify much more clearly what our vision for Littleborough is before presenting them to the public once again.”
Among the changes Church Street will not be narrowed as part of the proposals.
The council says that it will work with existing businesses to improve the area to help increase footfall and boost the early evening economy along Victoria Street
the council also confirmed that it is not looking to close Hare Hill Road-It is proposing occasional closures of the road to facilitate community events that support local businesses, including specialist markets.
Littleborough Lakeside Councillor Janet Emsley said: “These exciting plans will see the refurbishment of historic railway arches, the introduction of an improved public realm, improved sustainable travel links and much more. We want to continue working with local residents, businesses and community groups to make Littleborough an even better place to live, work and visit. As such, a further round of consultation and engagement will ensure our ambitious proposals to regenerate the area are strengthened, in line with the wishes of the local community.”
Littleborough Lakeside Councillor Tom Besford said: “We’re really glad that the council has listened to the voices of local residents. Littleborough councillors have worked hard to ensure that the new version of the plans are right for Littleborough and we’re grateful to the hundreds of local residents who fed back through the first consultation.”
