Rackhams building transformation receives green light

A large-scale redevelopment of the former Rackhams building in Altrincham has been approved by planners. Trafford Council’s planning committee gave the green light for plans to transform the former House of Fraser department store.It will be revamped into 50,000 sq ft of commercial workspace and 25,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space on the ground and lower ground floors. Approval of the scheme will be viewed as a major step forward for Trafford Council and Bruntwood Works in the regeneration of Stamford Quarter.Renamed Foundation, the development will provide a blend of workspace, retail and leisure right in the heart of the Stamford Quarter. It will act as a “cornerstone for the transformation of the town centre” and “create a new gateway into Altrincham”.The joint venture project will also result in the first regional Pioneer building. Bruntwood Works’ £100m Pioneer programme is designed to create forward-thinking workspaces centred on six key pillars: biophilia, art, sustainability, wellness, amenity and technology.