The Northern Gateway is a collaborative development programme led by Rochdale Borough Council and Bury Council. It is anticipated to support up to 10,000 new jobs and generate approximately £630 million annually for the Greater Manchester economy.
It covers 2 areas:
- Heywood and Pilsworth JPA 1.1
- Simister and Bowlee JPA 1.2
The Northern Gateway makes up part of The Places for Everyone plan.
Plans for Heywood and Pilsworth JPA 1.1
We plan to develop the land between junctions 18 and 19 of the M62 into a modern industrial estate.
The plans include:
- New 6.5 million square foot industrial estate including shops, leisure facilites, and a hotel
- New road links and walking and cycling routes
- Landscaped green spaces
Our plan was approved by the cabinets of Rochdale Borough Council and Bury Council and following a period of public consultation has been adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document.
Plans for Simister and Bowlee JPA 1.2
We plan to create a thriving and sustainable community between Simister and Bowlee.
The plans include:
- Up to 1,550 new homes
- A new primary school
- Upgrades to the local highway network
- Improved public transport and green spaces
- Community facilities
- Additional walking and cycling routes.
Have your say
The initial draft of our plans has been approved by both councils’ cabinets, and we’ve carried out assessments to evaluate their environmental impact.
- View the initial draft of our plans for Simister and Bowlee JPA 1.2
- View the Habitats Regulation Assessment for JPA 1.2
- View the Strategic Environmental Assessment for JPA 1.2
We're looking for your views on the initial draft of our plans for Simister and Bowlee JPA 1.2.
From 13 February 2026 to 27 March 2026, you can let us know your views:
- Online: Share your views online
- Email: strategic.planning@rochdale.gov.uk
- Post: Strategic Planning, Rochdale Borough Council, Floor 3, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
- In person: you can learn more about our plans and give your views at the following drop-in sessions:
- Tuesday, 24 February 2026, 4pm to 8pm – Radcliffe Market, Bury
- Wednesday, 25 February 2026, 4pm to 8pm – Elton High School, Bury
- Thursday, 26 February 2026, 4pm to 8pm – Parrenthorn High School, Bury
- Thursday, 5 March 2026, 4pm to 8pm – Edgar Wood Academy, Heywood
Other related documents
- View the Adoption Statement for JPA 1.1
- View the Habitats Regulation Assessment for JPA 1.1
- View the Strategic Environmental Assessment for JPA 1.1
- View the Delivery and Phasing Strategy for JPA 1.1
- View the Consultation Statement for Heywood and Pilsworth JPA 1.1
- View the Consultation Statement for Simister and Bowlee JPA 1.2