Five-storey apartment block planned

A NEW five-storey apartment block could soon be built in Rochdale town centre - if plans are approved.

The proposals would see 33 one-bed apartments built on vacant land off Drake Street - the former home of Ivesons, a local furnishings and carpet retailer.

Following vacancy in 1998 the Ivesons stores fell into disrepair before ultimately being demolished in the early 21st century.

According to applicant Cassel & Fletcher, the site has now become an eyesore which would be replaced by an apartment complex which is part-four, part-five storeys tall.

The ground floor level would accommodate two apartments, cycle storage for 22 bikes, bin storage, a plant room and the residential entrance lobby.

The upper floors would contain the other 31 apartments. Planning papers read: “The site is located within a highly sustainable location in Rochdale’s town centre and benefits from the array of shops, amenities, services, facilities, and employment opportunities that this brings.

“The site is also very accessible by public transport, being only 230m (3 minutes’ walk) from the Rochdale Town Centre metrolink tram stop which provides frequent services to various stops, including those within Manchester City Centre.”

The planning statement went on to highlight the site is within walking distance to the bus interchange as well as the train station.

The application proposals do not involve provision of car parking spaces.

The car free scheme aims to support a reduction in reliance on cars and encourage use of more environmentally friendly modes of transport amongst future residents.