Kingsway attention turns to housing

Wilson Bowden Developments has submitted a planning application for the next phase of Kingsway Business Park in Rochdale.

The plans include 60,000 sq ft of offices in five units, a budget hotel, 160 homes alongside the Rochdale Canal and a village centre comprising a convenience store and other shops to support the business park and new housing development.

Until now the park has been focused on industrial and distribution space. John Hudson, chief executive of Rochdale Development Agency, said: "Rochdale is in need of more quality family housing. The housing element of the scheme will help to address that issue, and also support the ongoing regeneration of the canal area and Stanney Brook wildlife corridor."

Cllr Dale Mulgrew, cabinet member for development at Rochdale Council, said: "Kingsway is developing a reputation as a destination of choice for major companies and this next move will support its progress further as a major centre for business in the North West.

"JD Sports is currently carrying out work on its new 850,000 sq ft site, whilst businesses including CR Laurence and Vindon Scientific are now firmly established."

Earlier phases of the park were partly funded by the North West Development Agency and European Regional Development Fund.

A decision on the proposals is expected early next year. If approved the first new homes could be completed by the end of 2011.