Plans submitted for five-storey residential tower block in Rochdale town centre

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

The site of the former Ivesons store on Drake Street

A new five-storey apartment block could be built on Drake Street in Rochdale town centre – if plans are approved.

The proposals would see 33 one-bed apartments built on the land which was formerly the location of Ivesons, a local furnishings and carpet retailer. Following vacancy in 1998 the Ivesons store fell into disrepair before ultimately being demolished in 2013.

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.

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter