Plans for 32 homes on former Rochdale mill site recommended for approval

Tuesday, 20 May 2025 20:30

By Dean Sampson

A proposal to build 32 homes on the site of a former mill and dye works in Rochdale has been recommended for conditional approval.

Hall & Co Developments Ltd has resubmitted its plans for the former Tack Lea Works on Bury and Rochdale Old Road. Rochdale Council’s planning committee will consider the application on Wednesday 29 May.

The scheme includes a mix of property types:

Three terraces of four houses (eight with three bedrooms, four with four)
Four semi-detached homes (two with three bedrooms, six with four)
Six detached five-bedroom properties
A block of six two-bedroom flats near the site entrance

The plans, initially considered in 2023, have been revised after the developer submitted a viability appraisal arguing that full policy contributions would make the scheme financially unviable. The assessment comes as the Places for Everyone Joint Development Plan – adopted in March 2024 – is now fully considered in local planning decisions.

Despite this, 25 objections have been lodged, raising concerns over increased traffic, pressure on school places, potential impact on biodiversity and trees, and whether the design fits with the local character. Some residents also called for larger homes or raised issues about development near Green Belt land.

The 0.88-hectare site has remained unused since derelict buildings were cleared in 2020. It was previously occupied by Melba, a company that made traffic cones and other highway products. Earlier planning permission for a 70-bed care home has now lapsed.

According to council documents, the site is well-screened by mature woodland, with Tree Preservation Orders in place, and contains two ponds. Nearest homes are located to the east, with Lower Tack Lee Farm to the north.

The scheme includes a landscaped area of open space at the western end, featuring a play area, outdoor dining space and planting.

In recommending approval, planning officers described the scheme as “an efficient use of the site” that would deliver “a valuable contribution of family dwellings and higher-value housing in a sought-after location”. They added it met planning requirements and raised “no concerns” over access, parking or highways.

As part of the conditions, the developer must contribute:

£92,102.53 to primary education
£46,051.25 to secondary education
£33,541.20 to formal sports provision at Heywood Sports Village

The plans must also include an affordable housing strategy, securing six two-bedroom flats for affordable rent. Maintenance of open space on the site is a further requirement.