Dilapidated mill could become £20m ‘gateway’ development for Stockport with 217 homes

A neglected mill could be transformed into a ‘gateway’ development for Stockport with hundreds of homes and large amounts of space for businesses. Meadow Mill, on Water Street, next to the Portwood Tesco, is described as deteriorating and failing financially. But it would be saved from potential dereliction and get a £20 million investment if a planning application is granted. The applicant, William George Homes, wants permission to create 217 apartments and also 30,000 sq ft of leisure and retail premises on the ground floor.


Currently almost half the giant mill – which is Grade II listed – is unused through lack of demand or because its condition is unusable. A report with the application by Peter Rowlinson Planning says: “The gateway prominence of the site is both in respect to Stockport town centre and the River Tame valley network.


“The site has the potential to significantly enhance both the urban and natural environments.


“(But) The building has consequently suffered from neglect, both financial and management, and this has led to a significant deterioration in its physical condition and the quality of the commercial tenants.


“Consequently, the building as a commercial business premises is failing as a viable business.


“The planning proposals will provide the necessary financial viability to create an impressive ‘grand residential and commercial premises’.


Under the proposals there would a pair of two-storey wing extensions and the addition of a seventh floor. The derelict roof – which is described as failing despite having £100,000 spent on it – would be replaced. There would also be landscaping and a children’s play area.


Meadow Mill has been owned by a number of organisations, which is said to have led to a lack of strategy for its preservation and regeneration. What tenants there are are currently in discussions to be relocated. The development could provide welcome news to the council bosses who have acknowledged a severe shortage of housing in the borough and are keen to promote living in and around the town centre.


Source: Manchester Evening News read here

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