Former court site to be bulldozed for homes

TRAFFORD’S former magistrates’ court is to be bulldozed to make way for a housing development.

The council bought the Sale building in 2016 – and plan to use the site to kickstart the next phase of the town centre’s transformation.

The former Washway Road courthouse is a key redevelopment opportunity in the town, say council bosses.

“The authority acquired the site for a residential-led scheme to provide the types of accommodation that local residents need,” said a council spokesman.

“Proposals on how it will be taken forward are now being worked up.”

The site has been acquired as part of the council’s investment strategy.

As well as delivering much-needed housing, the scheme will provide a return that can be re-invested in council services, added a spokesman.

This announcement comes just weeks after an ambitious planning application to develop Sale town centre, that includes leisure and retail space, a six-screen cinema and 202 homes, was tabled.

Coun James Wright, portfolio holder for investment and regeneration, said: “The magistrates’ court is another excellent investment opportunity, generating a financial return which will be used to support our front line services.

“We are delighted to have been able to secure this site. There is a fantastic opportunity to create a residentially-led development that will increase footfall and spend in the town centre, as well as providing quality homes in a very desirable location.”