‘Co-living’ scheme planned for empty warehouse

An empty warehouse in Ashton could be converted into flats.

Under the plans, the Hurst Laundry factory building on Holden Street would be converted into 36 studio apartments with en suite and kitchenettes. Four private flats are also include in the plans.

The ‘co-living’ scheme, by Ashton Property Partnership Ltd, includes a communal social space; gym; a publicly accessible cafe; and launderette. The social space will include larger communal kitchens and living areas.

The kitchenettes are only supposed to be for day to day use, such as warming food or preparing drinks.

A greater variety of kitchen appliances and opportunities for social interaction would be provided within the larger shared kitchen.

The concept of a co-living scheme is to provide a larger space and a more community feel than a traditional house of multiple occupation (HMO).

Planning papers read: “Co-living represents a modern and positive form of accommodation for young working professionals (YWPs). However, we recognise that co-living is a relatively new concept within Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council (particularly in Ashton-under-Lyne)

“A co-living scheme refers to a purpose-built and professionally managed form of rental housing designed to offer high-quality residential accommodation combined with extensive shared amenities and social spaces.

“These developments often feature all-inclusive rents and flexible tenancy terms, making them attractive alternatives to traditional private rented housing, especially for those seeking modern, amenity-rich environments in urban locations.”

Union Manchester, Square Gardens Manchester; Mason & Fifth in London; and The Collective London have been included by the developer as success stories of this co-living model.

CGI of how the co-living scheme in Ashton could look when complete. Credit: Ashton Property Partnership Ltd/Tameside council.