‘100pc affordable’ apartment block could be built on site of former doctor’s surgery

A ‘100 pc affordable’ apartment block could be built on the site of a former doctor’s surgery in Rochdale.

Housing association Arcon has tabled plans for a new four-storey building on land at the junction of Woodbine Street and Oldham Road, in Newbold.

Boasting 22 new homes, it would include a mix of one and two bedroom flats – which would all be available for affordable rent.

The apartments would also be managed by Arcon, which owns and looks after more than 1,300 homes across Greater Manchester.

Planning documents say the scheme would revitalise land in a ‘key regeneration area’ of the town.

Papers point out that council policy specifically ‘seeks to promote physical, social and economic regeneration in Newbold’.

They add: “The proposal will develop a vacant prominent site in this area, including houses.”

The proposed quarter acre site is described in documents as a ‘small parcel of grassland’, which has been vacant since Wellfield Surgery moved across the road in 2013.

Rochdale Canal runs adjacent to its northern boundary, including the Grade II-listed Lock 50.

And the applicant acknowledges that  any redevelopment of the site should ‘seek to preserve or enhance the setting of the listed structure and wider canal corridor’.

The height of the building is intended to be  ‘in keeping’ with the existing structures in the area,  with reference taken from the historic mills in the close by.

And the block would stand back from the main road to avoid being overly-dominant on the street.

Arcon says the scheme ‘reflects its full commitment to an inclusive society in which nobody is disadvantaged and where physical barriers and exclusions are designed out’.

Planning papers add: “Where potential residents are found to be unable to use the new building with dignity through any condition they may have, the client will give consideration to their needs and will aim to provide specially adapted accommodation to meet their needs.

“By developing an inclusive environment, the scheme shall have a positive effect on society by benefiting the increasing elderly population and providing opportunities  for Arcon Housing residents.”

Vehicle access would be from Woodbine Street, with parking provision for 18 cars and 12 bicycles.

And existing pedestrian routes are to be maintained and enhanced by new lighting and surfacing.

A decision on whether to grant planning permission will be made by Rochdale council.

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