The site of the former Denton Baths is poised for a remarkable transformation, signalling a new chapter in the community’s evolving landscape. Once a vibrant gathering place for swimming enthusiasts, the baths were unfortunately demolished in 2020 after efforts to preserve them proved unsuccessful. This marked the conclusion of a cherished era, with the swimming facilities being relocated to the Tameside Wellness Centre. Today, the site is set to undergo a metamorphosis into an affordable housing development, a move that offers the potential to rejuvenate the area.
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The redevelopment plan, approved by the local council, entails the construction of a 35-home apartment block tailored to provide affordable rental options. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle the housing shortfall in the region while breathing new life into a site that has languished unused for several years. It stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and adaptability, transforming a fragment of local history into a beacon of opportunity for future residents.
The development emerges from a collaboration between Collaborate Living Ltd and Irwell Valley Homes, two entities dedicated to the creation of sustainable and accessible housing solutions. The apartment block will offer rental homes priced at up to 80% of the market rate, ensuring they remain within reach for a broader spectrum of residents. This initiative is particularly poignant given the ongoing challenges many face in securing affordable housing, reflecting a concerted effort to address these pressing issues.
Strategically situated adjacent to Victoria Park and in close proximity to essential amenities such as shops, schools, and healthcare centres, the location is ideal for this new development. The three-storey building will comprise 11 ground-floor apartments and 12 units on each of the two upper floors, featuring a mix of one- and two-bedroom flats. This range of unit sizes is specifically designed to meet diverse housing needs within the community, fostering a more inclusive environment.
The project also incorporates features for modern living, including ample cycle storage and 24 parking spaces, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and convenience that aligns with contemporary urban living standards. The development’s strategic positioning also offers excellent access to public transport, further enhancing its appeal to potential residents, and ensuring that the area remains well-connected.
Initially, plans for the site were more ambitious, proposing a four-storey, 46-home structure. However, following public consultation and discussions with local Member of Parliament Andrew Gwynne, developers chose to scale down the project. This decision highlights the crucial role of community engagement in urban development, ensuring that the project aligns with local needs and concerns rather than merely imposing an external vision on the community.
The planning documents underscore the development’s potential to revitalise a brownfield site, offering diverse housing options that can foster community growth and diversity. Councillors have shown strong support for the scheme, describing it as a high-quality housing solution that will significantly enhance the area’s appearance. The project is viewed as a sustainable and suitable use of the space, meeting the needs of local residents while offering a variety of dwelling options that are both practical and appealing.
The transformation of the former Denton Baths site into affordable housing represents a strategic and community-focused approach to land use, one that seeks to sustainably address local housing challenges while retaining a connection to the site’s historical roots. As construction is set to commence, the development promises to deliver significant benefits to the community, contributing to its growth and vibrancy. By integrating historical respect with modern necessity, the project stands to offer a renewed sense of place and purpose, reinforcing the community’s commitment to forging a dynamic and inclusive future.
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