A new initiative to transform Empress Conservation Area in Old Trafford have taken a step forward after Trafford Council agreed plans so far.
The area between Chester Road and the A56, a powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution, was placed on Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register in 2012.
It has been the site of stalled private regeneration plans for derelict Empress Mill, Trafford Press and Veno buildings.
Now, with partners Homes England and Historic England, the Council wants to breathe new life into the area through possible new interventions, set out by Donald Insall Architects.
The draft Empress Conservation Area Regeneration Plan, considered by the Council’s Executive Committee, will now be the subject of a new round of public consultation.
Ideas include restoring and reusing vacant buildings, some of which are grade two listed, repurposing vacant land, and making more of the proud industrial heritage of the site.
Aims are to benefit residents, businesses, site owners and partners, and proposals include building a mix of housing as well as improving routes to parks and green space.
Developments would adhere to a new Empress Design Code, designed to reflect and enhance the Victorian red brick character of the area, as well as the broader principles of the Trafford Design Code.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “The area has a quintessential industrial and historical urban character – a snapshot of Trafford’s proud industrial past – but it is at risk.
“Key landmarks are vacant, and their condition deteriorating and schemes to bring forward conversion or new development have stalled. We want to turn things around and work with landowners and partners to make Empress Conservation Area a great, sustainable place to live, work and visit in years to come.
“A masterplan is the first step to achieving this vision, which ties in with the Council’s priorities for a thriving economy in Trafford, and homes for all. We look forward to talking to the community and businesses about what should happen next to benefit everyone.”
