Major Regeneration Plans Submitted for Prestwich's Longfield Centre
Urban developers Muse, in partnership with Bury Council, have formally submitted a planning application to completely redevelop the Longfield Centre in Prestwich. This ambitious project aims to replace the aging 1960s shopping precinct with a vibrant new town centre, marking a significant step in the area's ongoing regeneration.
Extensive Public Consultation Informs Design
The submission follows a second, six-week public consultation period that engaged over 550 local residents. Their feedback has directly influenced the updated masterplan, which now emphasizes enhanced community spaces.
Hugh Taylor, senior project manager at Muse, stated: "The submission of this planning application is a major milestone for Prestwich. We know how important community space is and this next phase is about delivering just that. We've updated the masterplan to feature more places for people to get together."
Key Features of the Proposed Development
The comprehensive application outlines several core components for the new Prestwich Village:
- 258 New Homes: To be built on the site of the former library and Longfield Suite. A commitment has been made that 62 of these homes (approximately 25%) will be offered as affordable housing, priced at 80% of the local market rent.
- Community Hub: A modern facility designed to house a new, larger library and a versatile events space for public use.
- Public Amenities: Plans include a new public green space, a gym, and dedicated units to support local traders and businesses.
- Future Health Centre: The developers have pledged to create a new health centre for the neighbourhood, although specific plans for this facility are still under development.
Part of a Broader £100 Million Regeneration Scheme
If approved, this development will constitute phase two of a major regeneration initiative for Prestwich, valued at over £100 million. The project has already secured a £35 million Good Growth funding grant from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
Phase one of the scheme, a £14 million new car park and cycle storage unit on Fairfax Road, is currently nearing completion. Furthermore, a new travel hub is scheduled to open in the area this summer, adding to the project's momentum.
Taylor added: "With the travel hub due to open this summer, there is real momentum behind this project, and we look forward to working with Bury Council to bring these plans to life."
The planning application is pending validation on the Bury Council website. Once processed, it will be made available for public viewing and further comment, allowing residents to continue their engagement with this transformative project for Prestwich.
