Major plans confirmed for former Rackhams building

Transformational plans for the former Rackhams building in Altrincham have been officially revealed, with the proposals designed as a game-changer for the town.Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council are behind the project, which forms part of the wider development of the Stamford Quarter. It also marks the former’s first Pioneer building outside Manchester city centre.Lined up is a complete redesign of the ground floor, providing an opportunity for hospitality operators to take space that includes outdoor terraces on Stamford Square.A focus on biophilia has also been introduced through a living wall.Elsewhere, the once-loved House of Fraser store would be transformed into 37,500 sq ft of commercial workspace, with retail and hospitality operators taking 15,000 sq ft on the ground and lower ground floors.A two-storey extension and outdoor terraces on the first floor also feature in the plans, with active travel and fitness supported through new cycle storage and showers.The transformation forms part of Bruntwood Works’ £50m Pioneer programme, which is designed to create forward-thinking workspaces centred on the key pillars of biophilia, art, sustainability, wellness, amenity and technology.Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council are inviting the community to participate in the next phase of the consultation period, with drop-in sessions taking place at Stamford Square in the Not So Secret Garden on 18 August.