There is a great deal of debate into where is best to build property in the Greater Manchester area of late. There is a growing need for property, and affordable accommodation at that, but there have been many objections to the use of greenbelt land for building property. This has been evident in Stockport but there have also been objections raised in other parts of Greater Manchester but it may be that the history of the local area is able to provide a solution. The benefits of turning the traditional mills of Greater Manchester into housing blocks have already been cited and work is underway in Stockport to offer a range of housing options.
However, it may be that the next big resident development project in Stockport turns to another mill, but it may need a million pounds to turn this ambition into reality. There has been a planning application submitted to Stockport Council regarding building 171 flats in Cheadle Heath at the Springmount Mill. This mill is not in the best of condition and in April, yobs broke into the premises and started a fire. This saw the mill being classed as unsafe but the biggest issue with the premises lies with its past and what was made or used there.
The mill has a lengthy history
In its time, the mill has been used as a cotton mill, a printworks factory and a bleachworks, all of which means that there are high levels of carbon dioxide and methane in the premises. It is believed that it will cost more than £1m to make the property safe from contamination, which is clearly an issue in any development plan. While there are high hopes surrounding the property plans, the need to offset these costs means that there is little optimism that affordable housing will be created. After all, there is going to be a need to recoup that money and this means the builders and developers will likely create luxury flats to increase the likelihood of the money being obtained.
Given the need for affordable housing in the area, it would be brilliant to see affordable options created here but it may be beyond reach. At the very least though, if the project goes ahead, it should create 100 jobs and it will increase the chance of maintaining parts of the building dating back to the 1800s. This is definitely something that is worth preserving so while there are many obstacles to overcome with this project; it is likely to be a project that is worth keeping an eye on.
As a Stockport estate agent, Spencer Harvey is always keen to hear about ways to bring more housing to the area and there is potential in the Springmount Mill.
Image From Manchester Evening News Coverage, read their piece: Warning to stay out of derelict Stockport mill after blaze destroys part of the first floor