Bruntwood’s Altrincham Pioneer building tipped for approval
The Rackhams building is to be converted into a retail, leisure and workspace hub under plans from the developer and Trafford Council.
The project, designed by BDP, is the first phase of the Stamford Quarter regeneration development, which aims to improve the public realm and make the area a mixed-use destination.
The Rackhams revamp is also part of Bruntwood Works’ Pioneer programme, aimed at creating modern flexible workspaces with a focus on sustainability, wellness, amenity offers, technology and biophilia. Other Pioneer buildings include 
The Plaza in Liverpool and Bloc in Manchester.
In Altrincham, the joint venture between Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council wants to create around 46,000 sq ft of commercial workspace within the existing building, and through the creation of a two-storey rooftop extension.
An additional 14,000 sq ft, spread out between the ground and lower ground floors, would be reserved for retail and hospitality operators.
Bentley’s Fish and Chip shop, located on the corner of Stamford Way and Stamford New Road, is to be converted into a standalone 1,000 sq ft retail unit.
Other elements of the proposals include the demolition of two bridges, one for pedestrians and one for traffic, connecting the site to the Sunningdale and Kingfisher building and the installation of a 3,660 sq ft living wall.
Trafford Council planning officers have tipped the plans for approval ahead of next week’s planning committee meeting.
Avison Young is advising the joint venture on planning and BDP is leading on design. Planit IE is the landscape architect.
About time
By Smallwood