Mill conversion comes forward at Basford East

Plans to convert an historic mill into commercial space along with new homes as part of the wider Basford East masterplan near Crewe have been put forward by The Witter Trust.

The existing Crotia Mill Farm is to be redeveloped under the hybrid application; the mill building will be extended and converted to include flexible commercial space, while outline plans have also been put forward to build a mix of 13 new homes around the site, along with a public space on the existing farmyard.

Initial proposals for the mill conversion include for an office or co-working space, although the design by architect Just H has been kept flexible to allow for a variety of uses including as a café, bar, restaurant, or community venue.

The houses will be delivered around the mill and will include eight three-beds and five four-beds.

The mill sits to the south of the wider Basford East masterplan, which is being brought forward in several phases.

The first is to be brought forward by Lane End and Onward Homes, with the housebuilders to deliver 447 homes on a plot to the east of David Whitby Way.

The site has outline permission for 490 homes and a 22,000 sq ft primary school; The wider Basford East site includes provision for a further 325 houses, along with 110,000 sq ft of office and business space.

Muse and the Witter Trust secured planning permission for this part of the site in 2015, before selling 23.5 acres of land to Homes England last year.

This deal will allow Homes England to build out the housing element, while Muse will develop the commercial part of the site, which under the most recent planning permission from 2015, is also due to feature a 5,000 sq ft health centre, a 5,000 sq ft community centre, 25,000 sq ft of retail, and a 4,000 sq ft pub and restaurant.

Preston-based Smith & Love is the planning consultant for Crotia Mill Farm; Graham Love, the company’s director, said: “Crotia Mill has been owned by the Witter Family since 1892. The site sits at the heart of the Basford East Masterplan area and is the ideal location for a thriving community destination. The family are keen to retain and celebrate the historic mill farm whilst also creating modern fit for purpose facilities which will serve the emerging Basford East community.”

The professional team also includes Tyler Grange; Ascerta; Owen Land & Property; CBO Transport; and IGE Consulting.