Tameside will soon be on the hunt for a new development partner to help make the aspirational vision and masterplan for St Petersfield a reality. 

Over the next few months, the council will start the procurement process required to bring a private sector developer partner on board and help drive forward the plans.

This follows approval of proposals for the next steps in its delivery at Tameside Council Executive Cabinet. 

The Masterplan designed to re-invigorate the area in Ashton and attract more businesses to the borough is already in place following adoption by the council in January 2022.

The first phase of the plans outline proposals for nine mixed use development sites which combine commercial, leisure and new homes with improved surrounding public realm.

The mixed use schemes will provide high quality employment opportunities for residents and workers as well as new spaces to spend time and socialise in.

The council states that St Petersfield provides a clear opportunity for Tameside to create a modern, tailored development that can provide a hub for the growth of the digital, creative and tech sector in the borough.

The installation of the Dark Fibre network in the area, along with the construction of a brand new data centre housed in the regenerated Ashton Old Baths, ensures high speed digital and internet connectivity comparable to that available in Media City.

Holding a prime location in the heart of Ashton and sitting within the Ashton Mayoral Development zone, St Petersfield is easily accessible via the M60 and also well connected via rail, bus and tram. Its close proximity to the digital hubs of Manchester and Leeds also makes it convenient for developed industry sectors across Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Tameside Council Director of Place Julian Jackson said: "The masterplan for St Petersfield will provide an invaluable roadmap for collaboration with the private sector, helping to create new developments that will make a real difference to Ashton and bring unique opportunities for businesses and residents. 

"We will actively seek partners that can help deliver massive change to this area through a shared vision designed to promote growth, sustainability, health and well-being, hybrid working and community." 

People can find out more about St Petersfield on the council website at www.tameside.gov.uk/futurestpetersfield.