Office conversion to high-end residential use approved, despite residents’ objections

Planning approval has been granted for a £20m residential scheme in Sale, despite 15 letters of objection from local residents.

Chester-based luxury housebuilder, Blueoak Estates, has secured planning for external alterations at Sale Point, on Washway Road, which will transform a former commercial office building into 79 high-end apartments.

Built in the 1970’s, the building spans an impressive 50,326 sq ft, arranged over ground and five upper floors. The new homes feature a combination of one and two-bedroom apartments, all benefiting from luxury fixtures and fittings, on-site parking, and excellent transport links.

The council received 15 letters from nearby residents objecting to the proposal on the grounds of its impact on the highway network, local services, such as doctors’ surgeries and schools, and parking issues.

But they were told their objections were “not applicable” because the conversion falls under ‘permitted development’ regulations, and the decision would be made by planning officers, not the borough’s planning committee.

Blueoak said the continued resurgence of Sale as a hugely desirable and aspirational place to live within Greater Manchester has led to a higher demand for homes, notably apartments, appealing to those looking to join the property ladder.

Iain MacLean, Managing Director of Blueoak Estates, said: “It’s fantastic to end the year with the positive news that planning approval for external alterations has been secured for Sale Point.

“This is a fantastic scheme that will undoubtedly bring a significant number of high-end apartments to the area, reinventing this large commercial building within a highly prominent location.”

He added: “Whilst many developers opt for demolition, our vision is to transform existing buildings into high quality homes, carefully selected for their location and potential. This approach not only preserves the integrity of the original structure but also significantly reduces our environmental impact, capturing carbon by reimagining rather than rebuilding. In doing so, we create homes that are both beautiful and sustainable.”

Work is anticipated to begin in early 2025 with a build programme of 12 months.