Left to right: Rose Marley and Steve Coogan, with Rochdale Borough Council Leader, Councillor Neil Emmott announcing new Middleton regeneration projects.
It's been a busy and productive few weeks across our borough, with positive news, exciting regeneration projects and innovative services making a real difference for residents in Heywood, Middleton, the Pennines, and Rochdale. I want to begin with Hopwood Hall. The council welcomed the recent High Court judgement, which found in our favour and brings much-needed clarity about the future of this important historic building. While it's disappointing that a lengthy and potentially costly legal process was necessary, we are now focused on moving forward.
Since 2017, more than £1.6 million has been invested in Hopwood Hall by the council and Historic England, and we remain committed to funding essential repairs. Feasibility studies have been completed and options for its long-term future will be considered in due course. What is certain is that, once restored, Hopwood Hall will serve the wider Middleton community and continue to play an important role in the town's rich heritage.
There has also been a significant boost for Middleton's regeneration ambitions, with a series of announcements demonstrating the momentum building behind the town's Mayoral Development Corporation. I'm delighted that Middleton Old Grammar School, recently acquired by the council, is expected to announce a new tenant before the end of the year. This follows news that the council is in the process of acquiring the long-derelict Warwick Mill, which could be brought back into productive use, including the potential development of new homes. Meanwhile, plans are progressing to transform Middleton Scout Hut into a vibrant community venue offering activities and training opportunities for young people.
There is more good news on the horizon, with banking and post office services set to return to Middleton town centre in the new year. This is something I have long championed and it will provide another welcome boost for the town centre.
These projects form part of our wider commitment to invest in every part of the borough, creating jobs, driving economic growth and ensuring our communities thrive. At the recent 'Our Town, Our Future' event, I saw first-hand the passion local residents, businesses and community groups have for Middleton and their determination to shape its future. It is an exciting time for the town, and we are turning ambition into action.
Supporting residents through the cost-of-living crisis also remains a key priority. I am proud of the help we have provided through our Helping Hand campaign, which has supported thousands of older and vulnerable residents since 2022.
As global economic pressures continue to affect household finances, the council has recently approved a further package of support worth around £15 million over the next three years through the Government's Crisis and Resilience Fund. This will provide emergency financial assistance, help residents keep their homes warm, debt and welfare advice, housing support, access to food provision and free warm spaces.
We are committed to standing alongside residents who need support. This package will help reduce inequalities, ease pressure on household budgets and ensure thousands of people receive practical assistance throughout the autumn and winter months. My message is simple: if you need help, please get in touch. Further information is available at www.rochdale.gov.uk/costofliving or by calling 01706 923 685.
Finally, I want to highlight two important events that reflect our borough's strong and enduring support for the Armed Forces community.
On Friday 16 October, Rochdale Town Hall will host a Festival of Remembrance featuring military music, marching bands, speeches, reflections and the Act of Remembrance. It promises to be a special evening and everyone is welcome to attend.
Then, on Sunday 8 November, communities across the borough will come together for Remembrance Sunday services. It is always a poignant occasion, giving us the opportunity to honour and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country.
For details of remembrance events across the borough, visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/events.
Lest we forget.