Hyde has designs on new start, thanks to fashion designer Wayne Hemingway

FASHION designer Wayne Hemingway is one of the people leading the way to develop Hyde town centre.

And the public will be able to give its views on what he and planning experts GL Hearn want to see happen early in the new year.

Hemingway, who found fame with his Red or Dead label, has been appointed by Tameside Council to lead the development of an exciting new vision, masterplan and strategy for the area, which has been the source of much criticism in recent years.

His HemingwayDesign firm certainly has an impressive track record, having been involved in several schemes, including designing award-winning housing in Gateshead and forming creative communities, reimagining heritage buildings and what it calls ‘influencing the urban fabric’ of several places.

It is currently working with MediaCityUK – now Hyde is on its agenda as the authority looks to bring new life to the town.

It says: “They will provide a welcome boost to the ambition to regenerate Hyde town centre.

“Helping to make it a great place to live, work and visit which meet the needs of current and future generations.

“Hyde plays a significant role in Tameside’s Inclusive Growth Strategy, it was named as one of 70 towns across the country to take part in the Government’s High Street Task Force programme and is part of the Hyde Triangle alongside, Godley Green and Hattersley, which has been identified as one of the Greater Manchester Growth locations and a great opportunity to regenerate the area.”

Wayne Hemingway added: “It is no secret that town centres have to adapt with changing times.

“As we evolve our shopping and social habits, it’s important we move forward to meet the needs and tastes of new generations.

“Things have been moving particularly fast these last few years and there has never been a better time for Hyde town centre to make some purposeful, forward thinking moves.

“HemingwayDesign and GL Hearn have significant experience but our success comes from listening to the people who know best – the people who live, work, visit, or pass through a town.”

A High Street Task Force (HSTF) study, under the banner of ‘Unlocking Your Place Potential’ found the town can be improved.

The report paid attention to falling footfall rates and a growing number of empty units. However, it was summed up by saying: “The HSTF Expert has identified ‘collaborative working’ as the main barrier to transformation in Hyde town centre.

“A joined up approach is required to deliver this change and the formation of a Hyde Town Centre Task Force will provide the platform to drive the work forward, to act as a critical friend in the preparation of the town centre masterplan and to ensure that the local community have a voice in how they would like to see Hyde in years to come.”

This new team will conduct a survey to gain a wish list for what people want and need. Options will then be developed before a further public consultation exercise in early 2023.

The Martin Property Group, which recently acquired the Clarendon Square Centre, is also getting involved as it is keen to support the vision to improve the future of the town centre and ensure its success.

Gary Martin said: “The council and The Martin Property Group have a shared ambition to improve Hyde town centre.

“The Clarendon Centre sits at the heart of the town and the local community and we are pleased to be working in partnership with Tameside Council to look at ways to improve the centre, to continue to support our tenants and to enhance the quality and diversity of the offer for the people of Hyde.”

The survey at www.thinkhydetowncentre.co.uk opens on Tuesday, November 22 until Tuesday, January 3. There will also be a drop in event held in The Mall on Friday, December 9 between 10am and 4pm.

And Wayne Hemingway added: “Please visit www.thinkhydetowncentre.co.uk and download your thoughts. I promise you we are all ears.”