Plans to build more than 100 homes on Altrincham's long-stalled Altair site have taken a significant step forward after Trafford Council formally backed a residential-led redevelopment.
The council's Executive Committee agreed last evening that housing should be prioritised over retail development on the 4.5-acre site between Oakfield Road and Moss Lane.
The decision marks a major change of direction for one of Altrincham's most prominent regeneration sites, which has remained largely undeveloped despite almost two decades of ambitious proposals.
Councillors have now endorsed a residential-led approach that could deliver more than 100 new homes, although the precise number will depend on further design work and consultation.
The site, next to Planet Ice, move Altrincham and Altrincham Interchange, currently includes surface parking for 320 vehicles and a secure cycle shelter.
An indicative masterplan previously presented to councillors showed apartment buildings, commercial space and a potential multi-storey parking hub, which could replace some of the existing surface parking.
The council's decision follows the collapse of the original Altair regeneration scheme, which had been the subject of a development agreement dating back to 2007.
Trafford Council subsequently negotiated an exit from that agreement and regained control of the land, paving the way for a fresh masterplan funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
As Altrincham Today reported last week, the council's preferred option was to focus on housing rather than a supermarket-led development.
The next stage will involve further site investigations, design work and preparations for bringing the land to market, at an estimated cost of £400,000.
Half of that funding is expected to come from Greater Manchester's Good Growth Fund.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council's Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, welcomed the decision.
"We are delighted. We now have a clear way forward," she said.
"The site has been pending redevelopment for some years. We look forward to bringing the land back to life."
The future of the neighbouring ice rink has also been raised in the council's masterplanning work, with the possibility of its site being incorporated into a later residential phase.
However, rink owner Nice Leisure has recently reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Altrincham, pointing to a seven-figure investment in the facility, including new refrigeration equipment and ongoing refurbishment work.
Despite Monday's decision, no specific housing scheme has yet been approved, and further consultation, planning and other approvals will be required before construction can begin.
No timetable for development has been confirmed.
