Planning bid submitted for 132-home Radcliffe gateway development

A proposal to build 132 homes in Radcliffe, including 97 affordable homes, has been submitted by Salford-based Watson Homes.

Working with Didsbury-based Great Places Housing Group, the business, founded in 2013 by Rob and Mike Watson, says the scheme will form part of the latest ambitious masterplan for Radcliffe.

The site will feature a mix of one- and two-bedroomed apartments, which are designed to meet the high levels of demand from smaller households in the area. These homes in this mixed tenure development will be available for social rent, rent to buy and market rent.

The site has been identified as part of the Radcliffe Strategic Regeneration Framework as a key placemaking site, suitable for a development of up to six storeys in height.

The plans also include 13,000 sq ft for a mixed-use commercial building, including office and retail space, as well as food and beverage units.

The addition of the commercial space will attract business and investment to further facilitate growth. Also included are plans for a separate private rented block.

Designed by TADW Architects, the buildings will incorporate renewable technologies such as air source heat pumps and solar PV panels. The office accommodation has been designed to achieve BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, which will benefit the overall development, achieving a bio-diversity net gain.

Rob Watson said: “We have vast experience delivering high quality, affordable homes across the North West. Being part of the regeneration plans for Radcliffe is an important project to us. We look forward to working with our partners, supply chain and local people in delivering the vision for Radcliffe.”

Helen Spencer, executive director of growth at Great Places, said: “In line with Bury Council’s aspirations to develop this area as a key gateway into Radcliffe, our proposals consider how these homes will contribute to long term development of a resilient and vibrant community, benefitting from all the local facilities of Radcliffe whilst adding to the wider sustainability of the town centre.”

The development is located in close proximity to Radcliffe town centre, benefitting from local amenities and public transport links, including Radcliffe Metrolink and Radcliffe Bus Interchange, with direct journeys into Manchester.