Trafford council is poised to decide on a controversial plan to build 251 apartments on the site of the former Stretford Mall. The development, ranging from four to 10 storeys, would be situated next to the multi-storey car park in the town centre and marks the first phase of housing approved as part of a wider regeneration of the area.
Details of the Proposed Development
The scheme includes 120 one-bedroom, 115 two-bedroom flats, and 16 three-bed duplexes—a slight increase from the originally planned 248 homes. Residents would have access to a central courtyard. The ground floor will feature two retail units, with tenants yet to be announced. A public park is also proposed to the east of the block, offering formal play space, open lawns, planted gardens, and seating.
Local Objections and Concerns
A handful of objections from local residents cite concerns over parking provision, the 'excessive' and 'unjustified' height of the development, and 'unsafe' passage through the site. However, planning officers at Trafford council have recommended approval, stating the scheme would deliver key benefits including regeneration of a prominent brownfield site, new homes, a 'good quality large public park', and job creation during construction.
Parking and Safety Measures
No parking is proposed on-site, but 62 parking permits will be made available for residents in the multi-storey car park. Additionally, 251 cycle storage spaces will be created through two ground-floor bike stores. Regarding safety, officers noted that the Stretford regeneration plan is expected to create a 'substantially more pedestrian-friendly environment than at present'. Greater Manchester Police raised no objections to the development.
Height and Density Considerations
The council stated that the building's height complies with previously approved parameters and that varying heights would 'avoid a monotonous, unbroken 'wall' of development'. While the site density is 'substantially greater' than policy guidance, officers said this phase is expected to be the densest and, when considered alongside wider plans, is 'acceptable'.
Affordable Housing and Wider Regeneration
No affordable housing is proposed in this phase, but 25% of the wider housing delivery across the entire regeneration will be classed as affordable. Officers argued that delivering affordable homes at this stage would render the scheme 'unviable'. The wider Stretford regeneration plan could bring the total number of new homes to more than 750.
