Plans for apartments on Thornham Mill site scaled back following resident concerns

Thornham Mill in Royton could be knocked down and replaced with a five storey apartment block

Plans for 72 apartments on the site of a former mill have been scaled back following consultation with neighbouring residents.

The original document been submitted in June to the town hall for the creation of a five-storey apartment block with undercroft parking on the site of Thornham Mill in Royton.

The recent consultation - carried out by local councillors Clint Phythian and Hannah Roberts -  raised concerns by nearby residents about the effects of the proposed building project.

A number of potential issues were raised by residents, ranging from concerns about the size of the development, the potential for increased traffic, and the contributions the developer would make to social housing or highways improvement.

Following discussions with planning officers, the concerns were raised with the developers who have now submitted a revised plan.

A reduced number of of 60 apartments has now been proposed. Further changes to the plans have been submitted including the reduction in length and height of the arm extending to the back of the site to reduce the impact on residents in Queensgate Drive and Consort Avenue. Minor changes include moving the bike storage into the parking garage and tweaking the access from Oozewood Road have also been included in the revised plans.

Councillor Hannah Roberts said "Residents told us that they did want Thornham Mill to be redeveloped for housing but some were concerned that the original design was wrong for the site and would have a bad effect on neighbouring homes.

"We have pursued the issues raised with us in the consultation and I am pleased that a scaled back design has now been submitted. I know that some people will still object to the apartments and I urge everyone to have their say on the Council’s web site.

"I intend to speak at Planning Committee when this is considered and would also welcome views either for against the new plans to make sure I am representing residents’ views"

The Planning Department will consider the comments submitted and will take into account planning policies and views of statutory consultees.

A Viability Assessment to agree community contributions by the developer will be independently evaluated. The application will be decided at Planning Committee as soon as a recommendation is agreed.

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