Unused factory building could be transformed into new homes

A vacant factory in Mossley could soon be transformed into houses and an apartment block.

Britannia New Mill has long been earmarked for redevelopment ever since plans to raze it to the ground were approved at the end of 2024.

Holmpatrick Limited, the developer, has proposed a scheme to build 17 houses and a four-storey, 32-home, apartment block on the site on Queen Street, just off Manchester Road. The houses would be a mix of two and three-bedroom homes and the apartments would be a mix of one and two-bedrooms. 

The ‘modern redevelopment’ would sit next to the River Tame, just a stone’s throw from Mossley train station. Junction improvements to provide better access, 59 car parking spaces and cycle storage are also included in the proposal.

The premises are currently vacant and have been unused for employment purposes for several years. Unit 1 was last occupied in 2022, and Unit 2 has been vacant since 2015, according to the developers.

Planning papers read: “The proposed redevelopment comprises the construction of 49 new homes including access improvements, car parking, landscaping and associated infrastructure following demolition of the existing buildings on site.

“The proposal will result in a housing policy compliant high-quality form of development within Mossley. The site is in a highly accessible urban location with easy access to public transport, shops, services, and amenities.”

Britannia New Mill should not be confused with Brittania Mill, its neighbour fronting Manchester Road, which has been earmarked for redevelopment by the Millson Group. In 2021 Tameside council approved plans to knock down Britannia Mill, built in 1851, and construct 62 new apartments.

Previous outline plans to demolish the mill had been approved in 2016 by the planning committee but had not progressed.