Following discussions with Transport for Greater Manchester and Oldham Council, its good that we can now confirm that the plans for Royton Town Centre will now keep the guard railings in place, in line with the coroner’s recommendations.
From the outset I raised concerns about proposals to remove the railings. Those barriers are there to guide people to safe crossing points and help keep pedestrians safe, especially with the increase in evening footfall as the town centre has grown with more bars and restaurants.
Thanks to Oldham Council for its support and for championing investment in Royton, and to Transport for Greater Manchester for taking the time to meet in Royton and following it up with these changes.
I know from previous updates that not everyone is convinced about the proposed improvements, but I think Royton deserves to see investment.
There are compromises, but I hope when it’s complete it continues the longstanding work which started with the new health centre, leisure centre, supermarket and refurbishment of the historic Royton Town Hall with its new public square. The very obvious gap is the precinct itself, which has to be the focus going forward.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 