Greater Manchester town's 15-year vision set for green light – and it shows huge aspirations
A vision expected to enhance a town centre over the next 15 years is set to be rubber-stamped by members of Trafford council’s ruling executive.
The final draft of the Urmston Plan, which was drawn up in July, will be presented to councillors tonight (December 8) following a series of consultations with residents and businesses.
Major aspirations arising from the consultations include the redevelopment of Urmston Market ‘by a significant margin’, Victoria Parade and the former doctors’ surgery on the corner of Station Road.
People also want big improvements to the public realm on Flixton Road and Crofts Bank Road, as well as the former bank on the corner of Crofts Bank Road.
Other desired improvements include raised road crossings at suitable locations, outdoor seating linked to cafes, additional trees, increased planting of shrubbery, and small-scale nighttime lighting.
A report from Coun Liz Patel, executive member for economy and regeneration, explains how Trafford council became the owner of the main shopping centre in 1999 before commissioning a study looking at how to keep the town centre ‘relevant’ at a time when retail trends and lifestyles were changing.
Approximately 250 people attended a consultation event, and more than 400 questionnaire responses were submitted to the council, along with 98 online and email responses as part of the final consultation.
“Meetings have also been held with a youth group, businesses, ward members [councillors] and local stakeholders,” Coun Patel’s report says.
“Comments gained through the latest consultation reiterated the desire to see Urmston retain its own identity, including through regenerating key sites within the town and bringing areas back into use.”
She says that the council is keen to support property owners to bring sites and premises back into use to support the sustainability of the town centre.
And Coun Patel highlights the ‘overall vision’ of the Urmston Plan which is ‘to create an inclusive and thriving town centre that fosters economic, environmental and social well-being’.
“We aim to enhance its vitality and sustainability while preserving its unique character and vibrant appeal,” she says. “By setting a framework, we want to ensure the future of Urmston as a dynamic place where all our residents, businesses and communities thrive.”