The regeneration of Prestwich town centre should take inspiration from Chorlton, Altrincham, Didsbury and Manchester city centre's Mackie Mayor, a public consultation has found. The £100m plan to redevelop the centre of the neighbourhood includes the demolition of the Longfield centre, replacing it with independent businesses; homes; outdoor areas; and a new community 'hub' focused on health.
The plans were worked up by Bury council and development partner Muse. The first results of a 'community conversation' on the plans have now been revealed. The 'Your Prestwich' project is aimed at 'transforming the Longfield Centre and cement Prestwich as one of the best places to live in the north west'.
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'Key feedback themes', following thousands of responses, have been revealed. These included the need to prioritise local and independent businesses - and to ensure rents and leases are affordable.
Those giving feedback want to see existing tenants supported. Concerns were also raised that there is not enough business space allocated in the draft masterplan.
The document reads: "We need to take inspiration from high quality schemes and town centre offers across the region. Examples include Altrincham, Didsbury, Mackie Mayor, Knutsford, Alderley Edge and Chorlton.
"We need a phasing strategy that allows businesses to operate during demolition and construction; deliver temporary business accommodation, and minimise disruption for local businesses."
Other comments on the design requested that it should complement and take inspiration from existing Prestwich architecture and heritage and needed to be in-keeping with the character of the area. The current free parking arrangements in the centre of Prestwich were listed as one of the best things about the area.
Dedicated parking for new residents was also cited as a key priority - as well as spaces for the hub.
Feedback was 'mixed' on proposed housing. Those giving feedback stressed the need for housing to be affordable and supportive of first-time buyers. Other themes were the need for homes suitable for older people and the view that there are already enough family homes and that new homes are not needed in Prestwich.
There will be a further public consultation before a planning application is drawn up.
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