THE Spatial Framework needs to take into account healthcare and education, the chief executive of Bury Council has warned.

Geoff Little, was speaking as chief officer of Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

At the CCG meeting last Wednesday he was keen that the health needs of the town are catered for in the controversial housing and employment plan.

Mr Little told the CCG: “If all goes well we may well see [the GMSF] coming back for consultation early in the new year.

“If it does there will be a debate about how we allocate the land to employment and housing. I would like to make sure that’s seen through the lens of health of improvement.”

People’s needs, like education, housing, and transport cannot be seen in isolation when grand plans are made like the Spatial Framework and the economy is tied to the health of the population, explained Mr Little.

Through devolution the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership are working in conjunction to work towards a healthier region. The idea is a healthier area will also result in economic growth and prosperity.

Mr Little said: “[The GMSF] generates opportunities for our residents, particularly in deprived areas to access good jobs.

“Economy is so closely aligned to health.

“Although there will be decisions about the allocation [of homes], what really matters is if the infrastructure is available. That’s about transport and roads but its also a question of social infrastructure.

“If the population does grow, do we have the right schools and health facilities? The CCG has a responsibility to be part of that debate.”