Cheshire developer to rework Castlefield site

A CHESHIRE-based property developer is planning to revive a major mixed use scheme planned for Ellesmere St in Castlefield.

Alderley Edge-based De Trafford Estates has bought a one-acre plot on which developer Circa Life had previously planned a mixed use scheme containing offices, a creche, gallery, museum and 216 apartments.

Planning approval was granted for the Stephenson Bell-designed scheme in 2006 and was due to expire, but De Trafford Estates has now bought the land for an undisclosed sum and is already understood to have held talks with Manchester City Council’s planning team about reworking the development to contain more family homes.

The site was sold to De Trafford Estates, which is owned by Gary Jackson, by Sanderson Weatherall.

John Goodchild of Sanderson Weatherall said: “Development of this strategic site beside the Chester Road gateway to Manchester will further enhance the regeneration of Castlefield and complement a wide range of high profile, new-build and converted developments in the area.”