The site of the former GM Police HQ in Stretford is set to undergo a transformative redevelopment, resulting in the creation of approximately 750 new homes. This follows the signing of a Joint Venture Agreement involving Far East Consortium (FEC), Trafford Council, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
The 9.5-acre site will be redeveloped not only to provide new homes but to also incorporate various other uses. The development aims to offer 25% affordable housing, aligning with the commitment of both the council and GMCA to deliver high-quality, affordable, low-carbon homes. This initiative is part of Trafford Council’s newly adopted Civic Quarter Area Action Plan for Stretford.
In addition to the new housing, the site is planned to feature a hotel, leisure facilities, new shopping areas, offices, and community amenities. Its location offers sustainable living with excellent public transport links to Manchester city centre. The developers were chosen through a competitive procurement process initiated in 2022, following Greater Manchester Police’s relocation to a new facility in Central Park, Newton Heath, in 2012.
Gavin Taylor, Managing Director at FEC Manchester, expressed his excitement over the formalisation of the agreement, stating, ‘It’s incredibly exciting to be able to formalise our agreement with the council and GMCA so that we can get under way with delivering the new vision for this regionally important project.’ He acknowledged the high-profile nature of the site and the local community’s desire to see it brought back into use, emphasizing FEC’s expertise in regeneration to create spaces for living, working, and community engagement.
Cllr Liz Patel, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration at Trafford Council, remarked on the significance of the development, particularly its location within the council’s Civic Quarter. She thanked the partners at GMCA and FEC for their efforts in revitalising the brownfield site, highlighting the project as one that will deliver 750 sustainable new homes, including a substantial portion of affordable housing.
This redevelopment project promises to transform the former police headquarters site into a vibrant community hub, providing much-needed housing and a range of other amenities. It serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the council, GMCA, and FEC in driving forward regional regeneration and meeting the housing needs of the local population.