Former police station could soon be transformed into new homes

The site of a former police station in Mottram could soon be transformed into new homes. 

The vacant building could be replaced by 14 new affordable homes, if plans are approved. According to north west-based housing association Onward Homes, the homes will all be high-quality, affordable, and have three bedrooms.

Onward plans to make all 14 homes available for either affordable rent, rent-to-buy or shared ownership, to help meet identified housing needs in the local area. 

The site, off Market Place, will benefit from a mix of off-street and communal parking. 

All homes are expected to be built using ‘Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)’, which will see most elements built in a factory before being assembled on site, according to the developer. This process aims to reduce the amount of construction traffic and waste, as well as shortening build times.

Onward is also nearing completion of 161 new homes in nearby Hattersley, including homes for affordable rent, shared ownership and a 91-bed extra care scheme, called Birch Lea Park.

Stephen Heverin, growth and regeneration director at Onward Homes, said:  “We are committed to improving the quality and choice of affordable housing across our communities, while minimising our impact on the local environment. 

“These modern homes will help local people and families put down firm roots in their area, while bringing a disused, brownfield site back into community use.

“We have worked closely with Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council to ensure these plans will help address the strong demand for affordable housing in the local area. We are now keen to hear from local residents before we submit a planning application.”

A two-week public consultation on the proposals runs from Monday, November 4 until Monday, November 18, with local residents and businesses invited to share their feedback.