Multimillion-pound brownfield site regeneration set to move forward

Regeneration plans for a vacant brownfield site in Trafford, which envisage new homes, green space and jobs and represent a £28m investment for the area, are set to take a step forward.Trafford Council’s executive will be updated on the progress on the Tamworth Development in Old Trafford.The joint venture, Homes for Trafford LLP, between the council and Trafford Housing Trust, will provide 161 energy efficient houses and apartments and is due to complete in summer 2024.A report drafted ahead of an executive meeting on 19 September said the proposals will “raise the bar for low carbon and low car neighbourhoods in our borough”.Amongst its aims are to create a “new, truly sustainable neighbourhood in Trafford” and regenerate a vacant brownfield site and prevent development elsewhere on green space.The report said the scheme will provide much-needed new homes in a mix of styles, sizes and tenures, including 30 per cent affordable housing with social rent and shared ownership properties. The housing mix provides 115 houses and maisonettes and 46 apartments.Also included is carefully selected materials to ensure that the the LLP is creating energy efficient homes right from the outset, and reducing bills, as well as plans to create major green spaces and landscaping for new and existing residents to enjoy, including a central village green.Other plans are to provide safe, outdoor play areas for children, promote sustainable travel through walking and cycling routes with links to public transport and electric vehicle charging points, as well as ensuring level access across the site for people with reduced mobility.A cafe or commercial space for a new local business is also envisaged in an overall project which represents a £28m investment for the area.The document said the scheme will support new jobs and apprenticeships during construction, in addition to further employment indirectly through the supply chain.The current programme for the development is to submit for planning on October with determination expected in January 2023. It is then envisaged that work will start on site in March 2023 subject to planning approval, with a target completion for the project set at June 2025.Trafford’s executive are recommended to note the progress of the development and the commitment to providing 30 per cent affordable housing.They will also be asked to approve that the council nominees on the Homes for Trafford Board will only approve development of the scheme commencing on the basis it will bring forward a minimum of 30 per cent affordable housing, note the plans and proposals including type and tenure mix and note the low carbon and sustainable measure.”The council is committed to the provision of new homes in the borough,” the report added. “The development gives the council control over how the land is developed so that it can be better aligned with the council’s strategic objectives and that the development meets the council priorities relating to affordable housing, energy efficiency and carbon reduction.”