Demolition of the former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) headquarters in Old Trafford has been completed, paving the way for a major redevelopment that could bring more than 1,000 homes to the area.
The nine-acre site, which previously housed the Chester House GMP headquarters, has stood empty since the force relocated to Newton Heath in 2012. After more than 15 years of disuse, the site is now set for a new lease of life.
Plans for 1,250 Homes and Amenities
Around 1,250 homes could be built on the site, alongside a 55-bed hotel, a new public park, shops, and a café. The historic Ellis Llwyd Jones Hall remains standing and is expected to be converted into a community leisure space.
A planning application for the redevelopment was previously expected this summer, but Trafford council officials now advise it will come in the autumn. The completion of demolition has been hailed as a 'milestone' in the site's transformation journey.
Community Priorities and Car-Free Design
Previous public engagement revealed local priorities for the scheme. Developer Far East Consortium said the 'clearest message' from respondents was the need for 'better access to green spaces' in the borough. A new public park is now proposed at the heart of the space off Talbot Road, White City Way, and Chester Road.
Traffic is 'already a challenge' locally, particularly on matchdays, the developer added. As such, the new neighbourhood is expected to be 'predominantly car-free' to avoid adding to those pressures. Around 100 parking spaces will be included, along with an on-site 'car club'. Some 700 bicycle spaces are suggested, as well as 'safe' walking and cycling routes.
Health Services and Commercial Space
Residents raised access to 'good health services' as a priority. Far East Consortium previously said it would be 'working closely with the NHS' to 'understand what health provision the community may need, both now and in the future'. 'Flexible' space is proposed within the development where services like a GP surgery could be set up 'if required'. This space could also be used for cafés, shops, and other business opportunities. Around 25,000sq ft of commercial space is included in the masterplan.
Also in the plan is an 'up to' 250-bed hotel to 'welcome visitors' to Old Trafford. Some 25% of the 1,200 new homes would be classed as 'affordable' under current intentions. The homes would be a mix of one-, two-, and three-bed properties.
Official Reaction
Liz Patel, Trafford council's executive member for economy and regeneration, said: "I am delighted that demolition work has been completed on the former GMP site. This is an exciting development which will result in the building of 1,250 new and affordable sustainable homes within Trafford. Trafford Council is committed to tackling the housing crisis by building more new and affordable homes on brownfield sites across the borough."
Ono Odudu, project director at Far East Consortium, said: "The completion of demolition works marks an important milestone in unlocking the full potential of this significant site. Working in partnership with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, we now have a unique opportunity to deliver a sustainable new neighbourhood that responds to local housing needs while creating a lasting legacy for the wider community. We look forward to bringing forward a place that delivers much-needed new homes alongside high-quality public spaces, amenities and opportunities for both existing and future residents."
