Developer takes first steps with Altair

TWO buildings owned by Trafford Council in Altrincham will soon be demolished to make way for Altrincham’s £100m Altair development.

Oakfield House and the former Nationwide Auto Centre on Oakfield Road will be taken down to prepare the five-acre site near the town centre for the scheme which is being handled by Manchester developer Nikal.

The council gave outline planning for a new version of Altair in February which includes retail space, grade A offices, a hotel and a new ice rink.

The scheme is also being considered by Trafford Healthcare NHS Trust as one of two possible locations for the new Altrincham General Hospital. An announcement is expected in November.

Nikal’s managing director Nick Payne said: “The development will be the catalyst for the renaissance of Altrincham, leading to a permanent ice rink, offices, hotel and shopping, as well as the proposed new interchange.

“We hope to be on site with the first phase of development early in 2011 with the first phase open to the public by summer 2012.”

Trafford’s executive member for economic growth and prosperity, Coun Michael Cornes, said: “It is encouraging to see work progressing on the Altair site, bringing the creation of jobs and regeneration of this area a step closer to reality.

“This scheme will be a real boost for Altrincham enhancing it as a modern and vibrant destination for visitors, shoppers and local people.”