Council Leader Reflects on Borough Transformation and Future Plans
Since assuming leadership of the council in 2021, I have consistently articulated a clear vision for the borough, focusing on key priorities and the essential services that local residents rightfully expect from their council. Over the past five years, I am proud to declare that the borough has undergone a significant positive transformation, driven by pioneering regeneration projects, innovative community initiatives, and substantial investments across Heywood, Middleton, Pennines, and Rochdale. We have never remained stagnant, and we never will. I have always maintained that standing still equates to moving backward, which is why we are relentlessly driving the borough forward to enhance it as an exceptional place to live, work, and grow up in.
Middleton Mayoral Development Corporation: A Vision for Growth
One initiative that fills me with immense excitement is the Middleton Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). In collaboration with Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, this project outlines a comprehensive vision for new homes, highly skilled employment opportunities, improved transport connectivity, and robust economic growth for Middleton and the surrounding region. Through the Atom Valley Gateway, we are seizing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to propel Middleton into a brighter future. My passion for this area is unwavering, and I am confident that, with the appropriate support, we can achieve remarkable outcomes for the benefit of local residents.
The development corporation is currently in its early stages, and over the coming weeks and months, we will engage extensively with residents and businesses across Middleton to gather their input on what they desire from an MDC and how they envision its operation. This initiative is fundamentally about accelerating the regeneration of Middleton to deliver meaningful change, not just for the present and immediate future, but for generations to come. I am optimistic that this ambitious regeneration plan will transform the Middleton area, leveraging our proud heritage to forge a better tomorrow.
Budget Proposals: Protecting Services and Investing in Communities
On Wednesday, February 25, this year's council budget proposals will be presented at Rochdale Town Hall. I am assured that our comprehensive package of measures is fair, equitable, and financially sustainable. These proposals safeguard frontline services, preserve jobs, and maintain community facilities. The budget also outlines further ambitious regeneration plans, reinforcing the message that the borough of Rochdale is committed to progress and prosperity.
The proposals offer tangible benefits to residents, including the implementation of a 2 per cent council tax discount. This measure translates to an average reduction of £41 on annual bills over the next twelve months. We are also ensuring the protection of essential services across township areas, with no library closures, community centres secured, and vital adult and children's services upheld. As a progressive council, we are investing in future generations by allocating additional funding to support the continuation of the real living wage for care staff. This builds on the success of our adult care transformation efforts and guarantees that older and vulnerable residents receive high-quality care and support in their preferred settings.
The council is fulfilling its promises to the people of Rochdale by not only protecting existing services but also investing in new initiatives and returning value through the council tax discount. I urge my councillor colleagues to endorse this comprehensive package on Wednesday, February 25.
Ward Capital Fund and Community Projects
To bolster the budget proposals, councillors recently approved a £3.5 million injection into the Ward Capital Fund, with £175,000 allocated to each of the borough's 20 wards. Thanks to the diligent efforts and initiative of my West Middleton ward colleague, Councillor Phil Burke, several projects have already been implemented in the Langley area using this fund.
Investments in Langley include refurbished speed humps on Knight Crescent, new resident parking areas on Windermere Road, and footpath refurbishment at Rowrah Crescent. We have actively listened to local residents and delivered on their most pressing concerns. These schemes exemplify the type of fundamental community projects that the fund is designed to support, with further investments planned across Heywood, Middleton, Pennines, and Rochdale.
Commemorative Event in West Middleton Ward
On Saturday, March 21, a moving and poignant event will take place in my West Middleton Ward, where the community will unite for a special service to dedicate Langley streets named in memory of former soldiers. The ceremony, commencing at 10:50 AM at Willow Park, will honour and remember Fusilier Lee Rigby, Corporal Joel Halliwell, and Lance Corporal Scott Hetherington.
'Rigby Way,' 'Halliwell VC Park,' and 'Hetherington Way' have been named in memory of Lee, Joel, and Scott, who shared deep and lasting connections with the Middleton community. The service will feature speeches commemorating the three late soldiers, wreath-laying ceremonies, the playing of the Last Post, poetry readings, and the Kohima Epitaph. Lest we forget.
