300 new homes to be built on site of former jam factory

Housebuilder Taylor Wimpey has bought the site of a former jam factory in Manchester.

The firm is planning to build 300 homes on the land once occupied by Robertson’s Jam in Droylsden.

Situated off Manchester Road, the purchase marks the latest stage of plans which will see Taylor Wimpey Manchester submit reserved planning matters for 300 houses and flats before the end of the year.

Planning permission was first granted by Tameside’s planning committee 12 months ago, with proposals to transform the site into a 350-home development.

The land is currently unoccupied, having been empty since 2006 when the factory closed.

If a planning application is successful, it is thought that building will start on site in spring 2020 and will include a mix properties from two bedroom apartments, to three-bedroom semi-detached homes and three-and-four-bedroom detached homes, with five per cent to be allocated for affordable housing.

Gareth Bancroft, senior land and planning manager at Taylor Wimpey Manchester, said: “We’re delighted to say that we will soon be submitting reserved planning matters for the former jam factory site off Manchester Road in Droylsden.

“Our proposals will transform what is currently an unused, brownfield site, into a thriving, sustainable community, catering for house hunters at all stages of their lives, as well as bringing much needed investment and infrastructure to the area.”

As part of the proposals, Taylor Wimpey has committed to investing £400,000 in transport infrastructure, improving the capacity and safety of local roads, delivering a high-quality public space, and re-generating the Ashton Canalside.

Chloe Dunn, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Manchester, says: “This is a really exciting time as we look to progress plans for much-needed new homes in Droylsden.

“With local amenities easily accessible, Manchester city centre nearby, and plans to enhance the local environment for all, we’re confident that the ‘former jam factory’ development will prove popular with house hunters keen to be a part of this bustling new community.”