The fight for the Phoenix

THE refusal of plans to redevelop Phoenix Mill in Failsworth have been fought out over two days at an inquiry.

In January, councillors rejected outline planning permission for 86 houses and apartments, and commercial space on the Cheetham Street site.

They said the plans would mean businesses having to relocate into an area with limited, suitable commercial premises, and which could force some of them to close.

However, applicant Mooney Rodgers LLP, which had previous development plans turned down in 2008, appealed the refusal. 

At a planning inquiry at the Civic Centre on Wednesday and yesterday, Gary Hapman, a chartered surveyor for 10 years, said he had made inquiries into 18 near-by business sites of which some had suitable space.

He said: “In terms of availability, I’ve not known business to be as difficult as it is now. Therefore, more accommodation is available across the board.”

Doug Hann, director of Indigo Planning Limited, said units at Phoenix Mill were in a poor state and it was not financially viable for the site to continue as business use.

He said there was sufficient sites to meet the businesses needs.

He said: “The council’s assertion of business closures is completely unfounded and irrational.”

Mr Hann added that the development plans were a regeneration opportunity that would create 62 new jobs as well as retain the current businesses elsewhere in the borough, and see the construction of family homes.

He said: “If members can’t justify a position in planning terms with a thorough assessment, it questions whether they should have made the decision in the first place.”

Norman Shackleton, owner of Machined Components Ltd at Phoenix Mill, said it was wrong to suggest all the units were in a state disrepair.

He said: “It’s not a true reflection of the mill as a whole.

“Over the past 15 years that I’ve worked there, there have been 30 work experience placements from local schools.

“I’m sure the council wouldn’t have allowed it if it wasn’t suitable.

“From a personal business perspective, we’re worried about relocation costs as our machines have to be set up by quality engineers.”

Inspector Clive Sproule said the result would be known in a couple of weeks times.

Speaking after the inquiry, Mr Shackleton said 25 business people turned up to the inquiry on Wednesday to show solidarity against the appeal.

He said: “We don’t want to relocate, we’ve invested in our units and have a good customer base.

“Some people have moved out already because this has been hanging over us for such as long time.

“We will just have to wait and see what happens.”