Clarence Arcade secured for community after HMO plan overturned

A beloved Ashton landmark has been given a new lease of life following confirmation that Monopoly Properties has acquired Clarence Arcade, returning one of Tameside’s most historically significant buildings to local stewardship.

Community heritage advocates have long voiced concerns about the future of the Grade-II listed Victorian arcade, particularly after plans to convert the building into a 16-bed HMO were initially rejected by Tameside Council but later approved on appeal. Campaigners feared the scheme would not only compromise the character of one of Ashton’s most imposing architectural assets but also negatively affect the wider town centre.

Andy Kleek made the announcement of the acquisition on the Make Ashton Great Again Facebook page this morning: “As you all know we are very passionate about saving our heritage assets in Tameside, and one we had a particular eye on and one which we have worked hard to save is Clarence Arcade.”

Their efforts have now paid off. With the acquisition complete, the group says the building is “back in the hands of the people of Tameside” and, crucially, in safe hands for its long-term preservation.

Attention now turns to the future of Clarence Arcade, and the team behind the campaign are inviting residents, businesses, and local organisations to help shape the next chapter.

“We have some great ideas, but we are open to input from the local community and would love you all to get involved, you may even want to take the building on yourself, in which case we are happy to talk to serious interested parties, just inbox our page.”

This call for collaboration reflects a wider desire to see the arcade play a renewed role in Ashton’s regeneration, celebrating its architectural heritage while creating vibrant, sustainable uses for the years ahead.

The announcement has been met with relief and celebration among local residents and heritage supporters.