Hillcrest submits proposals for Hale library redevelopment

Developer Hillcrest and architect Calderpeel have submitted planning applications to demolish Hale library, replacing it with a mixed housing and retail development, and construct a community hall next to the village’s bowling green.

The plans for the existing library site include six two-storey semi-detached homes fronting Addison Road, alongside two two-floor apartments above a 1,400 sq ft retail unit, fronting Leigh Road.

Hale’s library will relocate to a new-build community centre on Cecil Road next to the village’s bowling green, with the existing bowling club pavilion set to be demolished to make way for the proposals.

The main library will cover around 2,900 sq ft on the building’s first floor, while the ground floor will be reserved for a café, events space, meeting rooms, and a “seniors’ space”. Footpaths will link the community centre to Ashley Road.

Local groups, including the bowling club and senior citizens groups, have been consulted on the plans.

The site of the library was purchased by Hale Community Trust and Hillcrest in May 2015, and approved by Trafford Council in the same month. Redevelopment of the library’s existing site will help to fund its move to the bowling green.

Before approving the Community Trust’s proposals, the council also considered building a smaller replacement library, alongside residential on Addison and Leigh Roads; and also looked at building a temporary library elsewhere in the village.

Under the Community Trust’s agreement with the council, all future maintenance and running costs will be covered through the development agreement, meaning the Council will have no on-going liability, with the facilities due to be run by the Trust.

The Council will also have a 125-year lease on the library.