Plans for the redevelopment of the former Hale Library site on Leigh Road and the creation of a new 6,000 sq ft community ‘hub’ on Ashley Road are expected to be submitted for planning in a matter of weeks.
It follows the completion of a comprehensive strategic plan by the three partners involved in the project – Hale Community Trust, Trafford Council and Hillcrest Homes.
Hillcrest Homes and the newly formed Hale Community Trust, a collaboration of local business and community groups, won the tender to develop Hale Library last summer.
Their proposals will see library services in the village transferred to a new purpose-built building on the site of The Cottage, the existing Hale Village Bowling Green pavilion. The existing 7,800 sq ft library site on Leigh Road will be purchased for what is likely to be a significant capital sum.
Construction of the new hub will be funded by the redevelopment of the old site into houses, a shop and offices.
In consultation with Trafford Council, the alliance between Hillcrest Homes and Hale Community Trust has been progressing details for the two schemes ready for presentation to planning officials with a view to construction starting later this year, subject to a positive planning outcome.
They say the scheme is an example of the Council’s Reshaping Trafford programme, which seeks to create new and innovative models to sustain front line services and has been embraced by the Hale Central Ward Councillors and the Executive of the Council.
Cllr Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council and portfolio holder for Reshaping Trafford, said he was delighted to see the project progressing.
“This plan shows how effective partnership working can be in producing a regeneration project that brings huge benefits to the local community,” he said. “The Hale project will see modern facilities created for residents and I look forward to the plans being put before the planning committee for its consideration.”
Michael Kennedy, managing director of Hillcrest Homes, added: “We’ve taken great care to consider all aspects of each of the projects and have consulted experts in all areas, such as design, engineering and the environment, to name but a few. This is not a process that can or should be rushed, especially due to the complex nature of each of the sites and the important role they will play in the future of Hale village.
“There is an overwhelming desire by all parties to produce a new public facility that truly answers the needs of its community as well as providing attractive new homes that complement the area and meet the requirements of local buyers. We’re delighted with the final results and are looking forward to revealing our exciting plans to the public.”
