Mill Gate Shopping Centre: Improvement plans approved

"Regeneration Framework" for the town centre 15-acre retail site was approved by the council’s cabinet on Wednesday with the aim of providing "high quality public spaces" in the town centre.

The plan was developed by the council and property developer Bruntwood, in consultation with the community, and outlines ambitious redevelopment plans as part of the wider town centre masterplan.

The proposed seven figure regeneration scheme includes the transformation of the Mill Gate and surrounding areas, strengthening the town centre as a leading retail destination within Greater Manchester.

Council leader Cllr Eamonn O’Brien said: “By embracing this framework we’re poised to unlock the full environmental, economic, and social potential of Bury’s town centre, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.

“It’s all about making the most of what Bury has to offer and building a better community for all.”

The council has promised the development will create jobs, deliver new homes, provide high quality public spaces and improve connectivity.

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The Mill Gate Shopping Centre area is set to be transformed into a 'dynamic community hub' (Image: Citypress)

The regeneration plans are set to transform the area into a vibrant and dynamic mixed-use community hub, incorporating leisure, hospitality and housing, with sustainability, education and wellness at its heart. It will also provide workspace facilities directly to the high street.

The scheme also seeks to enhance the surrounding area connecting the Mill Gate and Bury Market, as well as linkages with The Rock.

Bruntwood and the council will make the area more inviting and and support ensure the success of the market going into the future. 

The regeneration framework will help to guide future development at the Mill Gate, and its surrounding areas, and will be followed by individual planning applications as each phase comes forward.

Further consultations with the public will take place at each stage.

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As part of the draft Regeneration Framework, the joint venture partners engaged with the community, hosting events showcasing plans for the site, as well as a consultation where local people could share their thoughts on the plans.

Community feedback from the consultation was then used to inform the Regeneration Framework.

Chris Roberts, chief development officer at Bruntwood, said: “Community feedback has been crucial to shaping our Regeneration Framework and we’re really grateful to the people of Bury for sharing their thoughts on the future of the town centre.

“Our plans mark the next exciting step in creating a dynamic and inspiring environment for local residents, businesses, and visitors.

"We’re looking forward to continuing to work alongside the council to bring forward a vibrant Bury fit for future generations.”