Trafford council is advancing plans to develop an Altrincham site that has stalled since 2007. Two competing visions are set to be considered by the council’s cabinet next week for the 4.5-acre site off Oakfield Road, previously known as Altair.
Residential-led scheme preferred
One option would be a residential-led scheme. A spokeswoman said more than 100 new homes could be built there if that approach is taken forward. Plan two could see a retail-led approach, with this most likely to include a large food store or supermarket.
Council documents indicate a preference for the former approach. If that is the case, some ground-floor retail uses could also be incorporated, they add.
Site details and parking considerations
The land, near Altrincham Interchange, currently comprises the Planet Ice ice rink and around 320 parking spaces. Trafford council said the parking is important for the neighbouring Move Altrincham leisure site. As such, part of the proposal would be expected to either retain surface-level parking spaces or offer alternative parking in a multi-storey mobility hub.
History of stalled proposals
The site has been subject to a series of development proposals since 2007. These have included everything from offices, a hotel, retail space, a leisure centre, bowling alley, to apartments, restaurants and a hospital. None of the schemes ever materialised, however, and developer Nikal went into administration in 2023. Trafford council decided to acquire the site in 2024.
Liz Patel, Trafford council’s executive member for economy and regeneration, said: “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.
“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.”
Trafford council's cabinet is expected to discuss proposals for the site and next steps at its meeting next week.
