There are plans to build more than 200 affordable homes on a former toy warehouse in Swinton.
Developers Kellen Homes intend to turn a former storage site for toy company RMS off Pendlebury Road into a ‘high quality new neighbourhood’ with 216 homes. The warehouse, described by the developers as an ‘underused brownfield site’ would be bulldozed to make way for four new tower blocks and around 44 semi-detached family homes.
According to details published on a purpose-built website, the neighbourhood would consist of three new interconnected roads with 86 parking spaces, a pocket park, and landscaping works. The family homes would have double driveways, or single driveways with shared drives nearby, as well as private gardens.
A planning description read: “By delivering around 216 affordable homes, the development would create new opportunities for local people to access high-quality housing in a sustainable and well-connected location. The homes would include a mix of apartments and family housing, providing options for people at different stages of life.”
The affordable housing mix is currently still being decided, with a likely mixture of reduced rent, reduced market value, and shared ownership options.
The scheme has not yet been submitted to the council’s planning officers. However, the plans have been published on a purpose-built website so locals can have their say. Local residents are encouraged to submit their thoughts on the proposal via an online form or by email.
Mark Waite, Kellen Homes’ Director of Planning said: “This [proposal] isn’t just about housing. It’s about bringing investment into Swinton, creating opportunities for local people and supporting the Town’s continued regeneration. We know local people care deeply about the future of their community and we’re keen to hear their views before a planning application is submitted.”
The area has recently seen a decline in its local high streets, with shops increasingly vacating the nearby Swinton Shopping Centre. Plans to regenerate the ‘eyesore’ Lancastrian Hall and Central Library have also been hampered by the presence of RAAC (aerated concrete) and asbestos in the fabric of the building.
