Residents can now voice their opinions on Greater Manchester’s biggest proposed employment development on the Bury and Rochdale border.
The Northern Gateway project aims to generate more than 20,000 jobs and bring a £1 billion economic boost. The 1.2 million square metre development site is close to Junction 19 of the M62.
Bury and Rochdale councils are now consulting on a Supplementary Development Plan (SPD) for the project. An SPD establishes planning principles for a particular area, which will be taken into consideration when planning applications are determined.
The Northern Gateway Development Framework SPD will include details about the site, such as the proposed infrastructure, phasing and timescales, the design principles and the benefits it is expected to deliver.
The Northern Gateway is part of the wider Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone, which aims to create a hub for high tech industries, innovations and economic growth in the North of Greater Manchester.
Public consultation
A public consultation has begun and runs until January 10, 2025.
All relevant documentation is on the councils’ websites at:
https://consultations.rochdale.gov.uk/research/consultation-on-the-draft-northern-gateway-develop
The councils are also holding two drop-in events, where planning officers will be on hand to answer any questions on the draft NGDF:
- Wednesday, December 4 – Unsworth Academy, Unsworth (3.30pm to 7.30pm)
- Tuesday, December 10 – The Old Police Station, Heywood (3.30pm to 7.30pm)
Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said: “This is a true game- changer, a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring jobs and investment to our part of the world. It will play a crucial role in building prosperous communities in Bury and the wider area for generations to come. I urge people to read the proposals and take part in the consultation.”
Cllr Neil Emmott, leader of Rochdale Council, said: “The Northern Gateway, as part of the wider Atom Valley, presents us with a transformative opportunity to rebalance the Greater Manchester economy and bring thousands of high quality jobs, improved transport links to surrounding areas and increased prosperity to the Rochdale borough and beyond.”
