The public are to be asked for their views on £100m plans to develop ‘a new community heart’ for Prestwich.
The proposals for Prestwich village, centred on the Longfield Centre area, are to be the subject of a ‘Spring community conversation’ organised by developers Muse, who are in partnership with Bury Council to deliver the project. Muse and the council agreed to enter into a joint venture in late 2021 to drive the project forward.
They are now working together on a vision to redevelop the centre, with new spaces planned for independent businesses, alongside a mix of homes, outdoor spaces and a new community hub focused on health and wellbeing. While the plans are still at an early stage, Muse said key ambitions for the £100m scheme included ‘creating an inclusive place that champions Prestwich’s community spirit’ with ‘sustainable buildings, walking and cycling routes and inviting public spaces’.
The first stage of the consultation is set to include a series of drop-in sessions at Prestwich Library, online Q&As for local residents and community groups, and stakeholder workshops. David Burkinshaw, development director at Muse Developments said: “Redeveloping the Longfield Centre will help position Prestwich as one of the best places to live and visit in the North West for many years to come.
“This is a huge opportunity to create a vibrant new destination for Prestwich that will deliver social value for the community, and provide the flexible spaces that local and independent businesses need to thrive into the future.
“Prestwich has a strong community spirit and we want to make sure that we give residents, businesses and stakeholders plenty of opportunity to work with us on shaping the vision.
“We’re looking forward to kicking this off in the Spring with our first community conversation.” What do you make of the plans? Have your say below
Coun Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council said: “The regeneration of our town centres is a crucial part of our strategy to make sure all areas of our borough can flourish for generations to come. This is the biggest single investment we have ever put into Prestwich as we are determined to transform the town and bring about much-needed improvement for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors.
“We need everyone to work together to make this a success, so I urge every single person to join us in reshaping Prestwich for a bright future.”
To register an interest fill in the contact form on www.yourprestwich.com or email info@yourprestwich.com or call 0800 689 1095.
No dates have yet been published for the drop in sessions at the library.
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