A new development expected to create 20,000 jobs and 7,000 homes in the north east of Greater Manchester has been given the green light.
Greater Manchester leaders have approved plans for the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ), which spans the North East Growth Location and will connect town centres in Bury, Rochdale, Oldham, Middleton, Heywood, Radcliffe and Prestwich.
The scheme also has the potential to deliver 1.6 million square metres of employment floorspace.
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The ambition is to create a hub for innovation in advanced materials, manufacturing, and green technologies, with world-leading facilities and opportunities for local residents to access good jobs, training, and skills.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “Today’s decision is a green light for our plans to transform the economy of our city-region and rebalance the scales of growth and opportunity.
“Our priority has always been to deliver inclusive growth that benefits all of our people and places. Atom Valley will offer world-class facilities for research and innovation, powering the skills and jobs needed to drive a new industrial revolution in advanced manufacturing and green technologies.
“It will also be the catalyst for revitalising town centres in the north east of the city-region, with new transport links integrated into our Bee Network – and as part of this we’re looking at all options to deliver Metrolink right into the centre of Middleton.
“While the future of the national levelling up agenda hangs in the balance, we’re getting on with our vision for a Greater Manchester that delivers good jobs, good homes, and better opportunities for everyone.”
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