Langtree wins approval for Hollinwood scheme

DEVELOPER Langtree has won planning consent from Oldham Council for an employment scheme which could accommodate 1,500 jobs.

Newton-le-Willows-based Langtree wants to build 215,000 sq ft of employment space and some leaisure, such as a hotel, at Hollinwood close to the M60.

It was appointed as the preferred developer in 2007 but the scheme stalled.

Managing director John Downes said: “It’s taken a lot of careful thought and work with Oldham Council to arrive at this point and we’re delighted with the help we’ve received as their preferred developer.
 
“This will be really good employment-led scheme that will transform the neighbourhood and accommodate up to 1,500 jobs. Our plan is to work with National Grid to remove the redundant gas holder, which is the key to unlocking the site for redevelopment.”

He added: “If all goes well and subject to funding, we’d hope to be on site with essential infrastructure sometime next year to facilitate redevelopment. It’s a really good scheme that will bring significant employment opportunities to the neighbourhood, as well as regenerating an area in need of investment.”

Councillor Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council, said: “Oldham Council is committed to working with Langtree to transform this area into a destination that will attract investors and new businesses. The redevelopment of this site and the arrival of Metrolink in Hollinwood has the potential to bring many opportunities not just in this area, but also for the borough, in terms of job creation and economic benefits.”