Tameside Council says it is developing an ambitious long-term vision for Droylsden, designed to breathe new life into the town.

The council says overall, the aim is to improve the town centre as a place to live, work and socialise while also identifying new opportunities for growth.

As the town increases in population it is hoped this will boost shops and businesses by supplying many more potential customers.

The vision’s foundations rest on the construction of dozens of new homes on the Lock Keeper’s development site.

This is part of the Droylsden Marina location where developer Watkins Jones has built more than 230 new homes in a  canalside setting.

Demolition of the adjacent former Droylsden Library, which is due to go ahead next year, will enable this key site to be marketed as a single opportunity and enable comprehensive redevelopment, the council says.

Other areas being considered for regeneration are the Concord Suite and the derelict Cotton Tree pub at the corner of Market Street.

The wider programme will also take in transport, accessibility, and all areas used by the public including community and green spaces.

From September 9, library services will be moved to Guardsman Tony Downes House, Manchester Road, where they will be provided in a modern, accessible setting.

Development of the near-by 1937 library site has been made possible by an injection from the Brownfield Homes Fund.

Cllr Ged Cooney, Tameside Council’s executive member for housing, planning and employment, said: “Regenerating Droylsden is a key priority for Tameside Council and this long-term vision will unlock lots of exciting opportunities for the town and its residents.

“It’s all part of a holistic plan which will gradually unfold and expand over the next few years to meet the needs of Droylsden’s present and future residents.”

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