Today, the first Chadderton Town Board met to discuss the proposal to develop a ten year investment plan for the area, with some funding provided to bring together the submission to government.
On announcement of the funding, I wrote to government to ask that Royton was also included but I’m afraid it didn’t transpire in the final list of towns which followed.
There may be scepticism about the fund and whether it translates into any meaningful investment, but I am keen to ensure as the town’s MP with a standing place on the board, that I do all I can to make it a success.
I believe we have huge potential and many great heritage and cultural assets which with investment could really stand out; Foxdenton Hall is an obvious one. But it also gives us the opportunity to ensure that every part is considered from Busk to Butler Green. Healds Green to Hollinwood Avenue.
You never know we might even get a proposal for the tram extension through Westwood to Middleton, or maybe settle for sorting out the traffic at Costco! Whatever the outcome it is essential local people have their say.
Congratulations – and thank you – to Laura Windsor-Welsh who has taken on the role as Chair, and to all the officers and partners who gave time to it.
As things develop community consultation and real engagement will follow, and its membership expanded to ensure it fully represents the township.
(We held the meeting in the ballroom at Chadderton Town Hall, which is a wonderful community asset and a credit to the town).
Jim McMahon OBE MP 