Plans for a major redevelopment of Bury Interchange have taken a significant step forward after a £25m cash injection was confirmed. The funding will support phase one of the works, which includes building a new footbridge, access improvements, and upgrades to facilities. This part of the overhaul was granted planning permission in July last year.
New Footbridge to Maintain Tram Access
The new bridge will allow continued access to the trams when the anticipated demolition of the current interchange and building of the new one takes place. It is expected that the interchange will close for redevelopment in either late 2027 or early 2028.
A Bee Network Committee meeting on June 25 confirmed the funding for phase one of the works. The changes at the interchange are aimed at 'transforming the passenger experience and bringing the standard of Bury’s transport offer in line with that of the wider city region.'
Detailed Designs and Contract Award
Detailed designs and a full business case review for phase one of the works have been completed, with a contract to be awarded this summer. The money will also be used to help create a blueprint for future works included in phase two of the redevelopment, which will include new housing.
A report stated: 'Agreement has been reached with Bury Council and GMCA [Greater Manchester Combined Authority] colleagues to the adoption of an ‘affordable rental’ tenure for the residential development, and steps are currently being taken to procure a development partner/registered provider for this element of the scheme.'
Catalyst for Town Centre Regeneration
The report added: 'The Bury town centre masterplan and local transport strategy identify the redevelopment of Bury Interchange as a priority project, recognising the scheme as a catalyst for wider town centre regeneration.' Bury Interchange opened in 1980, but according to planning reports parts of the facility have 'reached and surpassed their intended lifespan.'
Chris Barnes, infrastructure delivery director at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “The redevelopment of Bury Interchange is a major step forward in transforming the passenger experience, creating a modern, high-quality transport hub at the heart of the town. The inclusion of new residential apartments will further enhance the scheme, helping to create a thriving, mixed-use destination. We are particularly pleased that this will deliver much-needed affordable rental homes, supporting Bury’s wider regeneration ambitions and making it easier for people to live alongside excellent public transport. We are now progressing plans to procure a partner to help bring this exciting element of the scheme forward.”
The funding is being drawn from a government scheme called the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement. Bury council was approached for comment.
