Action taken on stalled and unsafe development sites in Old Trafford

A range of steps have been taken to kickstart progress on vacant and stalled development sites and bring buildings back into full use, in some cases ending a spiral of inactivity and decay.

The measures for the locations – which are undermining local communities and affecting occupants and neighbours – were outlined at a meeting of the Council’s executive committee.

Several sites were highlighted in the report, detailing actions in the last three years since the last update to members, as well as fresh moves to drive improvement. They are:

• Aura Court off Stretford Road: After a Fire Prohibition Notice was issued preventing occupation of much of the apartment block, construction work is currently under way to bring cladding up to required standards under the Homes England Cladding Safety Scheme and this should be complete this spring.
• Browning Street: This incomplete development has been blighted by sub-standard construction and fire damage. The Council installed steel shutters and served a notice requiring repairs to the walls and roof, and the removal of unfinished new build elements. An appeal is scheduled for February next year.
• Trafford Press / Veno Building, Chester Road: The Council issued notices following unfinished development and fire damage, requiring the removal of a steel frame, and clearance of vegetation, rubble and waste. While the steel frame was removed and some clearance work has taken place, a third notice to remove a partially constructed building will be appealed this summer.
• Former Duckworths Essence Distillery Building, Chester Road: The grade two listed landmark stood empty while the owner took urgent action to stabilise the building and stop water leaks. Further external and internal works are planned.
• 37 Seymour Grove: An application is now under way for the Homes England Cladding Safety Scheme at this apartment block, where cladding is currently sub-standard.
• Land at Northumberland Road: This complex development site is partially stalled and there is a large spoil heap in situ. The site owner was prosecuted for non-compliance with Council notices in December.

The Council has worked alongside Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Homes England and private sector partners in making progress.

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration said: 

“Steps forward on all these sites are to be welcomed and physical improvements are evident, ending what has been a period of inactivity and decay.

“The Council has not hesitated to use its powers of enforcement to secure positive action where necessary and appropriate. However, is clear that some sites are still a work in progress and until buildings are fully re-occupied, the improvement journey is incomplete.”

In some cases, leaseholders remain disadvantaged and unable to gain access to flats in their ownership. The report concluded that work must continue, particularly with the Trafford Press / Veno Building. 

In October last year the Council started consultation on a draft Empress Conservation Area Regeneration Plan with the aim of promoting urban renewal in the neighbourhood and preserving the area’s historic character and heritage.