New Chair Appointed to Lead Northern Gateway Regeneration within Atom Valley

Posted by on 19 May 2026

The Atom Valley Northern Gateway Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) has today announced Stephen Dance OBE as its Chair, marking a significant milestone as the MDC moves into the next delivery phase of one of Greater Manchester’s most ambitious regeneration programmes.

Northern Gateway forms a key part of the wider Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone and plays a central role in supporting growth across advanced manufacturing, innovation, housing and infrastructure in Greater Manchester and at a nationally-significant scale as part of the government’s Northern Growth Strategy.

Stephen Dance joins the MDC Board following time at the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), part of HM Treasury. A Chartered Surveyor by profession, Stephen brings with him more than 30 years’ experience across the public and private sectors leading delivery of major infrastructure, regeneration and place‑based investment programmes at national scale.

His expertise will be central to guiding the MDC as it works with partners to unlock new homes, jobs and long‑term economic growth at Northern Gateway and across Atom Valley.

Stephen Dance OBE said:
“Northern Gateway is one of the most significant regeneration opportunities anywhere in the country and critical to the success of the Atom Valley vision. I am delighted to be joining the MDC at such an important point, as it moves from establishment into delivery. I look forward to working with local leaders, partners and communities to accelerate progress, unlock investment, and ensure growth brings real, lasting benefits.”

Bury Council leader Cllr Eamonn O’Brien said:
“As Northern Gateway moves into delivery, it is vital that the MDC has the right mix of national expertise and strong local leadership. This appointment gives us the capability to turn long‑term ambition into tangible outcomes, while ensuring decisions remain firmly grounded in our communities.”

Rochdale Council leader Cllr Neil Emmott added:
“Northern Gateway is a central part of our growth ambitions and a major component of Atom Valley. A strong Chair will help ensure regeneration is delivered at pace, with clear benefits for residents, businesses and the local economy.”

Northern Gateway and Atom Valley are critical contributors to the Good Growth programme in Greater Manchester and unlocking national economic growth, the number one mission of the government.

In March, Greater Manchester Combined Authority awarded over £50m of GM Good Growth Fund support to Northern Gateway, alongside £15m for the Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre elsewhere in Atom Valley.

Stephen Dance will be representing the MDC at UKREiiF on Tuesday 19th May, alongside delegates from Atom Valley and other Greater Manchester MDCs.