Decision details

Consideration was given to a report of the Executive Director of Place and Economic Growth which sought approval of the establishment of a Mayoral Development Zone, within the North East Growth location of Greater Manchester and for it to be named the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone.

It was reported that the aim of Growth Locations of which there are six across Greater Manchester was to identify priorities for investment to support new development, improve sustainable transport links, create and retain employment, offer better job opportunities and improve training and skills development for residents.

The North-East Growth Location had a specific opportunity to create significant levels of employment around three key sites, Northern Gateway Site (Bury/Rochdale), Stakehill site (Rochdale/Oldham) and the Kingsway Business Park (Rochdale).

To support transformational economic growth at these locations, all three local authorities were seeking Cabinet approval for the sites in question to be incorporated into a Mayoral Development Zone to ensure a committed focus in delivering these sites at district, regional and national levels.

The Atom Valley MDZ would support inclusive and sustainable growth that would boost and maximise the competitiveness of the northern part of Greater Manchester in relation to its local economy and would provide employment opportunities in those areas, the proposal was also to brand the area as the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone.

Governance arrangements including the formation of a Mayoral Development Zone Board would be established as part of the proposals to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and investment was secured to realise the full potential and aspirations of the area.

Option/alternatives considered

Option 1 – To approve the recommendations

Option 2 – Not to approve the recommendations

RESOLVED – That:

1.    The establishment of the Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ) within the North East Growth Corridor be approved.

2.    That the Mayoral Development Zone be named Atom Valley.

3.    The establishment of the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Board be approved with the delegated authority to develop a strategy for the Mayoral Development Zone and create business case for investment and external funding support with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.