How Middleton’s revival could be grist to the mill for Britain’s struggling towns
Summary
Middleton, a town near Manchester, is facing economic and social decline after losing shops, banks, and local services. Local leaders and residents are starting a project to revive the town by restoring old buildings, building new homes, and involving the community in planning.Key Facts
- Middleton was once a busy town with shops, banks, and a cotton mill that drove its economy.
- The old Warwick Mill, now abandoned, was recently taken over by the local council from an absentee owner.
- The town has lost most of its banks and local services due to competition from big stores and online shopping.
- Middleton’s local tram network does not connect to the town center.
- Andy Burnham, now prime minister, started a development group to help revive Middleton before leaving office.
- This group can lower business rates, buy land, and build 1,500 new homes to support the town’s growth.
- Actor Steve Coogan and the head of Co-operatives UK, Rose Marley, are involved in leading the recovery efforts.
- Residents’ opinions are being gathered to guide the plans, focusing on renovating key buildings like Warwick Mill.
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