Major housing scheme gets final sign off

A 102-home residential scheme next to Stalybridge station has had final sign-off. 

It will be a mix of three-storey town houses and apartment blocks on unused land. Tameside council has finalised the details of the scheme with developer Bankfoot APAM, on behalf of the Greater Manchester Pension Fund. 

The current Harrop Street car park; industrial buildings off Water Street; and land historically occupied by Rassbottom Mill will be flattened for 44 townhouses and 58 apartments.

The plans, voted through by the council’s planning panel earlier this year, would see all homes available for affordable rates (up to 80 per cent of market value).

Potential new residents in the complex would also benefit from ‘quality’ private spaces, including front and rear gardens; roof terraces; and access to the new riverside public realm. Some 56 car parking spaces, 120 cycle storage spots and tree plantings are also included in the plans.

This scheme would form part of the first residential phase of an overhaul of Stalybridge’s western edge. This section of the town has been targeted under a £11.1m scheme for new housing, improved roads, public realm upgrades, a new multi-storey car park and a pedestrian footbridge.

The idea behind this is to deliver regeneration of the town centre, attract further investment, and deliver vital new housing. The proposed new multi-level car park would replace existing surface level car parking lost when the council sold off land to facilitate the development.

The footbridge across the River Tame would then help improve access to the new residential quarter of the town.

Planning papers read: “Stalybridge was once a leader in the cotton manufacturing industry of Victorian Britain, the town has been shaped around its industrial heritage, utilising its natural assets for industrial growth.

“Our proposals look to support Stalybridge’s connection to the river that once shaped the town’s growth. An ambition to create a new vibrant residential-led neighbourhood for the town; incorporating good quality public realm, high quality design and delivering uses that encourage engagement and inclusion with the local community.”