Trafford Council has approved the latest draft of its local plan, which will see almost 28,000 new homes built across the borough by 2039. The plan also includes 285,000 square metres of employment space.
Northern towns to bear the brunt
Some 76% of the new homes will be built in northern towns, with ambitious proposals for Trafford Wharfside unveiled this month. Around 15,000 new homes are expected on land near Old Trafford football grounds, alongside a new 100,000-seater stadium for Manchester United FC. The updated draft local plan contains 23 site allocations.
Two additional developments, already allocated through the Greater Manchester Places for Everyone plan, will bring 7,500 more homes and 410,000 square metres of employment space: 5,000 homes in New Carrington and 2,500 at Davenport Green, near Timperley.
Council leader's view
Deputy leader and lead member for economy and regeneration Liz Patel said: “This is one of the most important policy documents we will have as a council. The local plan is not just a document, but a working opportunity for us to shape how Trafford grows, develops and prospers over the next decade and beyond.”
Final approval is needed at this week's full council meeting. Afterwards, residents will have a six-week consultation limited to the plan's 'soundness', covering whether it meets needs and is appropriate, justified, deliverable and consistent with national policy.
Final proposals must be submitted to the Government by the end of the year to avoid a new rule change. If missed, the council expects it will have to increase housing delivery by 6,000 homes.
Breakdown by area
Old Trafford and Trafford Park
Around 24,500 homes are allocated to Old Trafford and Stretford. The Wharfside masterplan includes 15,000 homes, the new stadium, shops, hotels, eateries and offices, plus healthcare, education and tourism services. Council bosses hope this regeneration will create 48,000 jobs.
Another major scheme in the civic quarter will see land around Old Trafford Cricket Ground and Trafford Town Hall developed, with 4,000 homes expected. Stretford Leisure Centre could be refurbished. The Pomona Docks scheme could bring 3,200 homes on cleared dockland. Smaller developments include 540 homes off Kerton Road, 188 at Globe Trading Estate, and 154 at Brixham Road industrial site.
The Kelloggs Plant and SCA Hygiene Products sites in Trafford Park are earmarked for employment developments.
Stretford
Key allocations include the ongoing regeneration of Stretford town centre, where demolition of the former Stretford Mall began in June. Some 750 homes are expected, with the first 251 approved this month. At least 10,000 square metres of office and commercial space and a new park are also planned.
Land at Longford Trading Estate is allocated for 180 homes, with a plan for 94 homes submitted in April. Land at Lacy Street is included, with 53 homes approved earlier this year.
Urmston
Trafford Waters in Urmston could have 3,000 homes once complete, along with 80,000 square metres of employment and commercial space. The site has outline planning permission. Highways improvements are planned at Ellesmere Circle, Redclyffe Road and Junction 10 of the M60.
Philomenas Court in Eeasbrook is allocated for gypsy and traveller plots, with capacity for five pitches.
Altrincham, Sale and Timperley
Only 358 homes are proposed for this area. The largest allocation is 100 at Oakfield Road in Altrincham, currently used for car parking. Other sites include 88 homes on New Street, 60 off Moss Lane and Balmoral Road. Sale Lido could be converted into around 50 homes, and Stanley Square could see up to 75 new homes if the multi-storey car park is deemed superfluous, or 60 if it remains.
