Blueprint for Whitefield ‘dominated by traffic’ and ‘without a centre’

Bury Council is expected to approve the revised town centre blueprint following a period of consultation which has resulted in changes.

Key findings prior to producing the plan were that ‘Whitefield lacks a centre’, that ‘there is a lack of variety of things to do’, and the town is dominated by traffic.

The plans which received most support from the 250 people who participated were improving crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists on Bury New Road and Higher Lane and to plant new trees, create wildflower areas and install box planters.

Proposals were also supported for ‘Whitefield Common’, which include moving the existing Uplands Medical Centre to the former Whitefield Library, leaving the site open for residential development.  The council said it was recognised that accessing funding to deliver the plan will be a challenge.

In light of this, the authority is adopting a policy to ring-fence at least 10 per cent of the money received from locally raised capital receipts to help support

improvements specifically in Whitefield. The pot is the first time the council has made such a commitment to a town plan in the borough and it is hoped it will kick-start a wider funding strategy for the delivery plan.

Areas of concern during the consultation included parking availability, particularly near to Slattery and fears that improving active travel infrastructure would be inappropriate due to road width, lack of demand, and the potential of additional congestion being created.

While two-thirds wanted Bury New Road to be kept as it is, one-third wanted footpath space to be increased for the benefit of pedestrians, cyclists, or bus lanes.   There was also frustration at a lack of community spaces to meet.

Coun Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said: “The Whitefield town centre plan aims to improve the town centre area for communities, businesses and the environment. “These proposals have been drafted following extensive input from local businesses, residents and community representatives.

“We’re all committed to making Whitefield an attractive place to live, work and visit. The town plan will help us join the dots and make this happen.

“All the proposals will require further work and will be subject to further engagement with relevant stakeholders. Funding will also be required for implementation.”

Caleb Jones, senior urban designer at consultants Planit, said: “The proposals will support the delivery of an attractive, cleaner and greener people-oriented town centre where residents want to spend time and make full use its high street. The vision creates a catalyst for more detailed plans, funding bids and active community participation on Whitefield’s future.”

The plan is due to be approved by members of the council’s cabinet next Wednesday, December 4.

Some of the proposals within the town centre plan will be delivered in partnership with Bury Council, others will be community-led with community groups and local businesses taking a lead role.