Council approves plans for Stretford town centre vision

Multi-million pound plans to transform Streford town centre including 800 new homes and improved green spaces alongside the canal have been approved.

The plans by Bruntwood and Trafford Council are part of the wider Stretford Masterplan which will see the some sections of Stretford Mall demolished to create a commercial area with independent bars, restaurants and retailers.

The proposals include 800 homes around Stretford Mall, St Matthews Church and Lacy Street car park, which will include affordable housing as well as ‘people-friendly spaces’ and new pedestrian routes into and around the town centre, to enhance the flow of footfall around the area.

More green spaces, including a green biodiversity corridor and ‘Central Park’ alongside an improved Bridgewater Canal will be created.

Developers will also restore the historic King Street and open up access to the Bridgewater canal to make space for new waterfront bars and restaurants.

A new covered market hall is also planned, which will create a home for retailers and eateries, bar areas and outdoor seating to boost the local evening economy.

Andrea George, town centre and consumer brands director at Bruntwood, said: “Undertaking such an extensive consultation period with the local community allowed us to create a masterplan that provides for the people of Stretford and its surrounding areas, so we are very pleased that it has been given approval allowing us to start the process of breathing new life into the town centre.

“Through these plans, the high street will become the beating heart of the town and create a dynamic and entrepreneurial district that promotes collaboration and community. It’s fantastic to have achieved this milestone so that we can now move ahead with our plans and start delivering a positive evolution of Stretford for its people.”

Cllr Andrew Western, leader of Trafford Council, said: “The planning approval is a huge milestone for Trafford Council as we can now start work to redevelop the town centre for the whole community to enjoy.

“The Stretford Masterplan is a huge moment in our long-term collaborative partnership, and it’s a pleasure to work towards a shared vision and goals with Bruntwood and the local community who were involved every step of the way.”

The design team includes architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Exterior Architecture, Avison Young and Civic Engineers.