The vacant building that once contained Failsworth's last remaining bank is set to be converted into seven new apartments, after planning officers granted the necessary approval.
Plans for the Former Bank Building
Obinna Mezu of MZU Properties Ltd, a developer based in London, is behind the scheme to transform the block at 794 Oldham Road. The project will see the creation of seven one-bedroom homes.
Designs prepared by Had & Co show the ground floor will be reconfigured into three flats, with the upper floor accommodating four. The existing shop front windows will be adapted to suit the new residential layout.
Each apartment will contain a bedroom, bathroom, and a narrow open-plan area combining the kitchen, living, and dining space. To ensure adequate natural light for all dwellings, two new windows will be installed in the eastern wall.
Planning Approval Granted
Mr Mezu submitted a 'Change of Use' application in late October last year. Oldham Council officers granted 'prior approval' on Monday, January 12, 2026, allowing the development to proceed without needing full planning permission.
Planning officer Abiola Labisi stated the development was in a sustainable area with excellent public transport links, alongside good opportunities for walking and cycling. The site was also noted as being well-served by local amenities.
The approval was given because the building has been vacant for over three months, is not expected to increase traffic or congestion, and the proposed flats would meet nationally described space standards. This change formally moves the property out of commercial use.
The End of an Era for Local Banking
The NatWest branch closed in October 2024, marking the departure of the last bank from Failsworth. This left residents needing to travel to Oldham town centre, Manchester city centre by public transport, or Ashton-under-Lyne by car for in-person banking services.
The closure forms part of a wider trend. Analysis from Which? shows that NatWest Group has shut 1,431 branches since 2015. At the time of the Failsworth closure, a spokesperson cited a major shift by customers to online banking as the reason for the widespread cuts.
The building, which has had its signage and former ATMs removed, was listed for sale at £320,000 with estate agents Cushman & Wakefield last year prior to being purchased for its new residential future.
