Apartments plan can bring Stockport’s ‘historic heart back to life’
Oldham architects, Studio KMA, has submitted an outline planning application for a new residential development of 39 apartments at 34 Millgate, Stockport, on behalf of Mirabello Investments.
The proposal is located alongside the oldest parish church in the town of Stockport, St Mary’s Church, which is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I-listed building.
The proposal also sits within the Market/Underbanks Conservation Area and opposite the Grade II-listed Arden Arms public house.
The proposal makes a positive contribution to the neglected appearance of the existing site and considers the heritage significance of its surroundings, said Studio KMA.
The design, taking account of the sharp rise in topography, includes the re-establishment of the southern part of the historic route alongside St Mary’s Church, known as The Folley.
Richard Hamill, associate at Studio KMA, said: ”This development should ensure Stockport’s historic heart is brought back to life, but with a new development, respecting the past and looking forward to an exciting future for the town.
“The building at number 34, has been identified as a negative impact building in the Conservation Area Appraisal and we fully support that conclusion.
“Our proposals have been developed through a comprehensive urban design analysis of the site and surrounding area. The access, layout and scale of the proposal considers the existing built and natural environment, as well as important strategic views of St Mary’s Church.”
He added: “The outline proposals have been designed as a single, modern apartment structure giving the impression of six different, traditionally styled and proportioned, buildings creating a new ‘marker’ building at this important gateway to the town centre.”
The 39 units have been split, 23 one-bedroom apartments and 16 two-bedroom apartments including duplex living accommodation.
All apartments meet 100% requirements of the NDSS.
Richard added: ”The proposal considers the existing built and natural environment, and retains and enhances important strategic views of St Mary’s Church.”
