Vision and design for Hyde masterplan are taking shape

The draft masterplan for Hyde town centre is moving forward following approval at Tameside Council’s Executive Cabinet meeting on 29 March. Council Members approved the progression of the draft proposals which will go out for public consultation before the summer. The creation of the masterplan and strategy for Hyde is an important step in the regeneration process as it will allow the Council to seek funding sources to support the plans for the future.

HemingwayDesign and GL Hearn are working closely with the council and leading on the development of the exciting new vision, masterplan and strategy for Hyde town centre. They have had their ears to the ground finding out what local residents, communities and stakeholders from Hyde and across the borough, really want to see and need in the town.

These views have been used to shape the draft plans that will go out for public consultation in the coming months following the local elections. Following an online fact finding survey, over 1500 responses were received and lots of useful insight was gained at local community drop in sessions and workshops that took place with key partners and stakeholders at the end of 2022.

Feedback so far, has helped outline what are felt to be the common areas and themes for improvements which would not only celebrate and utilise the town’s important assets and public spaces but also help develop a better market and shopping offer with improved surroundings. Animation of the market square was also felt to be a high priority in order to accommodate cultural events and make it a place where people want to spend time. It is also clear that people feel shop frontage improvements will benefit the shopping centre and businesses across the town.

A re-imagined shopping area with more greenery and landscaping, improved public realm, and better pedestrian areas, including traffic calming measures to create safe and welcoming environment would help to make Hyde a great place to live, work and visit which meet the needs of current and future generations.

Wayne Hemingway partner at HemingwayDesign said: “The response from the community has been extremely encouraging and positive and has shaped the draft plans. People know that change is needed (only 4 people said it should stay the same), 85% of people want more places to socialise, 94% of people want more interesting shops and, 83% of people want better places to eat and drink, 83% of people want more cultural events. So the messages are clear and it’s up to everyone involved from businesses, to the council, to landlords and landowners and budding entrepreneurs and creative minds to try and bring about the positive change that people want and Hyde deserves“.

Tameside Council, Director of Place Julian Jackson said “It is clear that everyone wants to see change happen in Hyde town centre. It’s exciting to start to see the plans take shape and the public consultation will sit at the heart of moving the plans forward. It’s a chance for everyone to have their say and be listened to.”

“Putting a masterplan in place will put us in a strong position to seek funding sources and partners to support the vision for Hyde and help to make it a reality.”

All the latest information on the plans for Hyde will be added to the website so keep an eye on www.thinkhydetowncentre.co.uk to find out more.