Moss Side residential scheme approved

Rowlinson Constructions has been granted planning permission for a housing development on the site of the former Stagecoach depot fronting Princess Road.

Designed by architect Buttress, the plans will deliver 54 two- and three-storey family homes and 204 one to three bedroom apartments, 72 of which will be retirement living apartments.

The six-acre plot will include private gardens and a communal garden for the retirement living apartments. Plans for a community health hub have also been outlined for a future phase.

The site has been vacant since bus operator Stagecoach relocated in 2011 to new premises in Sharston, after occupying the plot for more than a century. Rowlinson was selected by Manchester Place, a partnership between Manchester City Council and the Homes & Communities Agency, to redevelop the site.

David Chilton, director of development at Rowlinson Constructions, was formerly HCA’s head of area for Manchester. Chilton said: “Gaining planning permission for this development is an important milestone in the ongoing strategy for Moss Side.

“We look forward to starting on site to bring high-quality market housing and apartments to an area that is undergoing an exciting renaissance.”

Ian Beaumont, director at Buttress added: “This is a new and distinctive place, that has been thoughtfully designed to sit seamlessly and comfortably with surrounding homes.

“Five years ago, we completed the transformation of the adjacent Bowes Street and with planning permission now granted, this neighbourhood is set to be joined by new residents and a scheme that will continue to diversify the range of homes in the area.”

Rowlinson has worked on several projects around Moss Side, including a 100-unit affordable housing project next to the depot for Mosscare along Broadfield Road. The company is currently on site with a 168-apartment scheme, the first residential development at Manchester Waters, formerly Pomona Island.

Construction is due to start in spring 2017.