Approval for plans to convert former probation centre into 45 homes

Plans to redevelop the former Stockport Probation Centre into 45 homes have been approved by Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council.

Withington-based property development and investment company, Britannia Group, will retain the historic main building while other later additions will be replaced by a new building designed to be in keeping with the architectural style of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Designed by architects Ollier Smurthwaite, the development comprises 13 one-bedroom and five, two-bedroom apartments in the original building.

A new building will contain 23 one-bedroom and four two-bedroom apartments.

A new garden space and a living wall will be created and the boundary with St Joseph’s RC Primary School will be significantly improved.

Nick Carter, development director, Britannia Group, said: “We are thrilled our plans for the former Probation Centre have been approved and we look forward to bringing new homes to Stockport’s thriving town centre.

“I’d like to especially thank the local ward councillors and St Joseph’s RC Primary

School who helped us shape our plans.”

Located on High Street, the historical retail district of Stockport, the main building on the site was originally constructed in 1900 and was previously the premises of wholesale grocers C J Preston & Sons before it became the probation office in 1983 and the site has been vacant since September last year.

Britannia Group is planning to start demolition works in the autumn. AshtonHale is the planning consultant on behalf of Britannia Group.