TfGM opens consultation on updated proposals for Heywood town centre

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has published updated proposals looking to improve journeys in Heywood town centre, recently dubbed Greater Manchester’s most neglected town centre. In line with the principles underpinning the Bee Network, the new plans seek to make travelling easier, more affordable and accessible, with more reliable and better-connected services.

The improvements are part of Rochdale Council's Heywood Town Centre Masterplan which aims to revitalise the town and boost connections to Manchester city centre and beyond.

Incorporating feedback from an earlier consultation carried out in Spring 2024, the plans are being put in place to speed up bus journeys and reduce delays for all road users by reducing congestion, improving bus stops so they are fully accessible, comfortable, safe and secure and improving journeys by walking, wheeling and cycling by making them as safe as possible. 

People are now being asked to share their views on the updated proposals.

Anthony Murden, Deputy Head of Projects Group at TfGM, said “Since the last round of engagement on proposals for Heywood town centre we have listened, gone away and looked at the feedback gathered and updated our plans.

“Listening to our local communities and making sure that people’s views are taken on board is key to us building a Bee Network that is accessible to everyone and meets the needs of our local communities.

“These updated plans are aimed at improving journeys for people whether they are on a bus, on foot or on a bike by making them quicker, safer and more accessible and we will also improve journeys for all road users – including drivers – by reducing congestion. 

 “This is an important part of our plans for building the Bee Network, improving the journeys that people make every day – whether that is to school, work, the shops, to healthcare appointments or for leisure purposes. 

 “So, if you live, work or visit Heywood Town Centre, or use this route regularly, even if you gave your views in the previous engagement, I’d urge you to have a look at these proposals and have your say, so we can take your views on board as we develop them further.”

Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for housing and regeneration at Rochdale Borough Council, added “I’m delighted to see that the feedback of local residents and businesses has been taken into account and that changes have been made to the original proposals to create a better scheme, which will improve journey times and create a more attractive town centre.

“These proposals will complement the wider regeneration of this area, which includes the multi-million pound regeneration of Heywood Civic Centre, which will transform this important cultural venue in the heart of the town centre.

“It’s so important that residents and businesses look at these altered proposals and give their views again.”