Vacant land in Altrincham town centre is set to be put forward for the development of much-needed new homes, pending approval from Trafford Council. The 4.5-acre former Altair site, located next to Planet Ice, Move Altrincham, and the Altrincham Interchange, includes parking for 320 vehicles and a secure cycle shelter.
Members are expected to give in-principle approval for the land to be used for new residential development at a meeting of the Council’s Executive committee on Monday 19 October. A previous development agreement from 2007 was exited due to a lack of progress.
The council has regained control of the site and has completed the initial stages of a new masterplan, which explored options including an alternative use for a large food store or supermarket. Funding for these early stages came from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
A report to the Executive suggests that new homes or retail space are both possible, but fitting both might be challenging if sufficient car parking is to be retained. This parking could potentially be incorporated into a multi-storey hub.
A strong case is being made for focusing on residential development to optimally utilise this 'highly-sustainable' town centre site and achieve the best placemaking outcome. The move involves 'de-risking' and preparing the site for sale at an estimated cost of £400,000, with half expected to be funded by the GM Good Growth Fund.
“"It's been some years since the redevelopment of this key town centre site was considered. We want to properly explore how it could now be redeveloped for maximum benefit of the town, the community and the local economy."
Cllr Liz Patel added: “The approval of a residential-led approach does not commit the Council to any specific development scheme and any future decisions would be the subject of further consultations and approvals.”
