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Key proposals include the creation of a public square with cafe seating, improved walking and cycling links and the regeneration of brownfield sites such as ...

Market Place does need improving without doubt, the town does need a masterplan. “I think there’s nobody in this room who is against the idea we need to improve Middleton town centre, I think we’ve got absolute consensus on that across the board” he said. “I think we could certainly go back to the drawing board and have a look at that again.” But you’re creating two town centres instead of improving the centre we have got.” The West Middleton councillor noted that concerns over proposals to reroute traffic from Market Place along Old Hall Street had been raised a number of times. He argued the plan did not ‘make economic or commercial sense’ and would ‘drive people away’ from Middleton. However, MIP councillors made it clear they would be pushing for significant changes in the authority’s approach. But residents raised serious concerns over proposals to change the road layout - including pedestrianising Market Place and diverting traffic along Old Hall Street - fearing it could lead to ‘gridlock’, worsen parking problems and hit existing businesses. Town hall bosses said a public consultation produced a largely favourable response - with respondents particularly enthusiastic about pedestrianising parts of Market Place and showcasing the town’s heritage. “I think we can agree in principle that we need a masterplan for Middleton town centre - but that masterplan can be changed, can be tweaked with and can be completely changed to whatever people want.” However - despite sometimes heated exchanges - the principle of a masterplan to drive the town forward was unanimously agreed by Labour and Middleton Independents Party (MIP) councillors. A masterplan that will underpin the transformation of Middleton town centre has been officially adopted - but it could still see some big changes.The ambitious strategy which aims to make it a ‘beautiful and exciting place’ was voted through at a sometimes fiery township meeting at the Arena.