First Choice Homes Oldham launches consultation on proposed West Vale development

Local housing association First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) has launched a public consultation to gather views about its plans to redevelop land off Vale Drive, Oldham, where the tower blocks Crossbank House and Summervale House now stand.

The West Vale development, located close to Oldham town centre, could deliver 88 new, affordable new homes for people in the borough and improve the surrounding area.

Proposals include a range of high quality, modern property types, from apartments to larger family homes, which meet the needs of local people; open space with an equipped play area for the local community to enjoy; landscaping across the site and creation of usable green spaces; plus car parking provision.

Full details about the proposals for West Vale can be viewed at: www.fcho.co.uk/consultation.

Local residents and businesses are invited to share feedback on the proposed scheme by emailing: yourviews@njlconsulting.co.uk or calling 0161 393 7117.

Alternatively, comments can be posted to First Choice Homes Oldham, 22 Union St, Oldham OL1 1BE.

Anyone who would like support to respond to the consultation or request documents should contact: westvale@fcho.co.uk or call 0161 393 7117.

The West Vale consultation is running from today (Friday) to Friday, January 22, 2021.

Head of Development at FCHO, Danielle Ashworth, said: “We have got exciting plans for the proposed West Vale development and making sure they feature the right design and layout is crucial.

"We want to hear your views on how we can achieve this so I encourage local people and businesses to have their say.”

All feedback from the consultation received will be logged and reviewed to help shape FCHO’s final plans before an application is submitted to Oldham Council at the end of January 2021.

The proposed West Vale scheme is part of FCHO’s ongoing commitment to bringing more high quality, affordable housing to the local area, where demand outstrips supply, as well as adding social value through its work.

Ms Ashworth added: “Over the next six years we’re investing £160 million to build 850 much needed homes for local people and this scheme will help us achieve this. 

“Also important is the contribution that this development will make to the local economy, creating opportunities for local people and businesses as it progresses.”

The West Vale consultation is the latest stage in the housing association’s plans to transform the site off Manchester Street.

Plans to demolish Crossbank House and Summervale House tower blocks were approved by Oldham Council in September 2020 and FCHO has appointed Oldham-based demolition specialist, D Hughes Demolition & Excavation Ltd to carry out demolition and clearance work at the site between May and November 2021.

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