Bruntwood jv sets out plans for Altrincham’s former House of Fraser
Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council have teamed up on proposals to turn the former Rackhams building in Altrincham into a workspace, hospitality and retail hub.
The property, which is formerly a House of Fraser department store, will be Bruntwood’s first Pioneer building outside of the city centre if the plans proceed.
Under the proposals, the former department store would be converted into 37,500 sq ft of commercial workspace. Retail and hospitality operators would take up a further 15,000 sq ft on the ground and lower ground floors.
Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council have teamed up on proposals to turn the former Rackhams building in Altrincham into a workspace, hospitality and retail hub.
The property, which is formerly a House of Fraser department store, will be Bruntwood’s first Pioneer building outside of the city centre if the plans proceed.
Under the proposals, the former department store would be converted into 37,500 sq ft of commercial workspace. Retail and hospitality operators would take up a further 15,000 sq ft on the ground and lower ground floors.
A two-storey extension and outdoor terraces on the first floor feature in the plans, as well cycle storage and shower facilities. The developers also intend to install a 3,660 sq ft living wall.
Works are expected to begin in the autumn.
The jv is inviting the community to participate in the next phase of the consultation period, with sessions taking place on 18 August.
Andrea George, town centre and consumer brands director at Bruntwood Works, said: “The pandemic changed the way we interact with our high street, boosting local town centres and creating exciting opportunities to redevelop former department stores for new uses.
“We’re confident the transformation of the former Rackhams store will be a gamechanger for the town and prove an attractive proposition for those looking for workspace outside of the city centre, while providing a new and much-needed amenity that complements the existing operators within Stamford Square.”
Andrew Western, councillor and leader of Trafford Council, said: “This development would provide a further boost to Altrincham town centre and transform the former Rackhams store into a sustainable and green workspace hub with first-class retail and leisure facilities.”
Bruntwood’s £50m Pioneer initiative aims to create workspaces focusing on art, biophilia, sustainability, wellness, amenity and technology.
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Image © Bruntwood Works/Trafford Council
