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Mills revamp still needs a Kickstart
Crains
28/09/2009
Ask Developments has cleared one hurdle in delivering its Compstall Mills scheme in Stockport, but funding the build remains an issue.
The Manchester-based developer has received the backing of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council to go ahead with the 121-apartment project in the village near Marple.
As well as 90 flats in a refurbished mill dating from the 1820s and 31 new build units, the plans also include 25,000 sq ft of commercial space.
Ask is waiting on the outcome of an application to the Homes and Communities Agency for a Kickstart grant, according to a report accompanying the planning application, which went to committee last week.
Around 50,000 sq ft of existing mill buildings are set to be demolished as part of the plans. New Scotland Mill and the roadside, weaving and mechanics sheds will be dropped to make way for new buildings. Victoria and Albert Mills will be brought back into use.
Noah's Ark
The Boiler House is at the centre of the site and is currently used as a substation and store. The proposal seeks to make use of the significance of the building, which will be extended for commercial use.
A club house for the Etherow Country Park Sailing Club, referred to by Ask as Noah's Ark, is also part of the proposals. It will have new facilities including a bar lounge, kitchen, storage and changing facilities. During the consultation, the application drew 21 responses, of which 14 were opposed to the scheme.
Under a section 106 agreement attached to the planning consent, Ask will have to pay £150,000 towards off-site affordable housing elsewhere in Stockport; £100,000 towards public open space in Compstall; and £50,000 for other community improvements.
The £400m Kickstart Housing Delivery programme is targeted at stalled projects and is designed to encourage construction of high quality mixed tenure housing developments.
Additional resources for Kickstart of £660m were announced by the government in June and the HCA will also run a second bidding round, which could include support for schemes completing in 2011/12.
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