A CHURCH, synagogue and Conservative club could be sacrificed to make way for a multi-million pound development at the Elms Square, Whitefield.

Millionaire Mr Albert Gubay, the proprietor of North Western Properties, owners of Whitefield's blitzed shopping centre, outlined his proposals for a health centre on the site during crunch talks in the town.

However, this could mean an assurance from Bury Council to get rid of buildings which stand in the way of the development, including Elms Street Methodist Church, Sharei Shalom Synagogue and Whitefield Conservative Club.

Mr Gubay, who travelled from the Isle of Man for the meeting on Monday (Feb 14), wants a "blank canvas" of land from the fire station to the Brand Centre to build new shops and a health and rehabilitation centre.

The centre will cater for people who need medical treatments such as physiotherapy. He has a string of them, including one in Walkden, and is currently building four more.

"The centre has been an eyesore for a long, long time. We have wanted to do something for a long, long time but until today I do not think there has been a willingness," said Mr Gubay.

He said the problem had been attracting an anchor tenant, such as a large supermarket. He added: "The next best thing I can do is have the health and rehabilitation centre there as an anchor tenant.

"With the willingness of the council something could be there within 12 months."

MP Ivan Lewis who called the crisis meeting was upbeat about the plan which he called "the best way forward".

He said: "It is a very exciting way forward and all parties should do everything in their power to make sure we can proceed as quickly as possible to turn this plan into reality."

Council leader Derek Boden said that Mr Gubay wants the council to be prepared to issue a Compulsory Purchase Order on the site. However, he stressed members would need justification to do this, such as planning consent showing what Mr Gubay's ideas are.

He confirmed he would like the development to benefit the whole community and added: "We would welcome it if it is creating something better. We would like to see some sort of facilities which are of use to local people. A health centre by itself would not be sufficient. We have still got to get around the table and talk turkey."

Transport bosses will have to be consulted on the proposals which could affect plans for bus corridors to speed up bus journeys between Bury and Manchester.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.