‘Eco-village’ proposal to be considered in Oldham
Plans submitted by architect Progress in Practice on behalf of Eco Village Industries would see 32 homes built.
The applicant plans to use a fabric-first approach to minimise the energy demands of individual homes, according to the planning documents.
Energy demands would be met by the introduction of low and zero-carbon technology, such as concealed solar panels on the homes’ flat roofs.
Plans for the site detail three blocks to the east of Pretoria Road, and two additional semi-detached homes on Collier Hill Avenue.
The four-storey Pretoria Road Building would consist of seven flats, four maisonettes, and one house in multiple occupation. Its flat roof will be partially covered by solar panels and green planting.
The green-roofed Collier Hill Building would reach two and three storeys, containing three flats and three maisonettes. The largest block, the Wild Garden Building, would have 12 flats across four storeys.
Homes would be facing out to a communal courtyard, with a central garden, surrounded by an external walkway.
A purpose-made overlooking aspect to the courtyard would provide “passive security” and “safe doorstep play” for children, according to the designs.
A re-wilded area at the back of the development would serve as a ‘wild’ garden.
Before construction may begin, the demolition of existing buildings would need to be carried out.
Refurbishment of the derelict warehouses on the one-acre brownfield site was considered, however, it was determined that the extensive repairs required would not be viable nor eco-friendly.
Every property would be guaranteed a private outdoor space in the form of a balcony or a small garden.
There are 18 parking spaces proposed for the 30 homes. The two semi-detached houses will have a parking space each.
On the project’s team are DEV Planning, ERAP, Redmore Environmental, DP Squared, a DeSimone company, Urban Wilderness, and Bowland Tree Consultancy.
A decision is expected by Oldham’s planning committee in December.
To view this application, use the reference FUL/353426/24 on Oldham Council’s planning portal.
