The transformation of Altrincham has taken a major step forward, with the announcement of innovative new proposals set to revitalise the area, delivering an exciting new Market Quarter and a more welcoming town centre.

The multi-million pound proposals, which were approved at last night's meeting of Trafford Council's Executive, will ultimately deliver a refurbished marketplace, pedestrian friendly streets and a new, purpose-built home for Altrincham library.

Build costs for the scheme are expected to be around £15 million, with precise costs set to be established as part of the next stage, which will see detailed design works carried out.

The proposals have been brought together by Altrincham Forward and enabled by Trafford Council and local developer, Citybranch Ltd.

Alongside this, a strategy has been worked up over the past two months focusing on movement through and around the town, and on the public realm. This work will help to maximise investment into streets and public spaces in the town and, in turn, attract more private sector investment.

The decision to approve the proposals, means that Trafford Council will now begin developing the plans in more detail, exploring working arrangements with Citybranch and commissioning designs for the refurbishment of Altrincham market and the surrounding area.

Councillor Matt Colledge, Chair of Altrincham Forward and Leader of Trafford Council, is personally driving the initiative to regenerate the town. He said: "This is a major agreement and a significant step on the road to revitalising Altrincham.

"Our aim is to increase footfall, provide better community facilities and improve business performance for everyone, from market traders to national retailers and for our local bars and restaurants.

"We are now looking forward to seeing if people agree with the plans, fine tuning them accordingly, and working through the details, so we can deliver a quality scheme for the people of Altrincham."

This decision marks the first of a number of announcements expected over coming months, with Altrincham Forward working alongside Trafford Council to develop and regenerate a number of other sites around the town.

Adam Gross, Managing Director of Citybranch, said: "As a business we are absolutely committed to Altrincham and recognise the huge potential of this area. We have been working closely with Altrincham Forward and Trafford Council for some time now to help shape these plans, and it's great news they have been approved.

"These proposals will help to drive forward the regeneration of Altrincham, and it is innovative working arrangements of this nature, which we believe can help local authorities deliver positive change in the communities they serve."

The proposals for Altrincham, and artist's impressions of the new Market Quarter will be on display at Altrincham Library for 30 days from 30 October for the public to look over and provide feedback.

The plans and proposals will also be displayed in the vacant shop windows next to Superdrug on George Street, frontages next to Travelodge on Stamford New Road, and Altrincham Town Hall (when open for meetings) to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to get involved.
To find out more, visit the website: www.altrinchamforward.com.