Rochdale Borough Council has concluded its latest round of planning decisions, delivering verdicts on numerous development applications across the borough up to the week ending Friday, November 14. The outcomes reveal a mix of approvals for commercial projects and refusals for several residential extensions, highlighting the council's current planning priorities.
Major Commercial and Infrastructure Projects Get Green Light
Several significant commercial developments received council approval, signalling continued investment in the borough's infrastructure. Hanson Springs Limited secured permission for non-material amendments to their previously approved extension at the Trans Pennine Trading Estate on Gorrels Way. The changes include alterations to cladding colours, the introduction of a mezzanine floor, and internal reconfiguration.
In a boost for local telecommunications, a prior notification for a 30-metre high lattice tower at Bamford Fieldhouse Cricket Club on Hollin Lane was approved. The structure will support six antennas and four transmission dishes.
The hospitality sector also received a significant boost with the approval of a 30-bedroom extension to the existing Village Hotel and Leisure Club at Waterfold Business Park in Heywood. Meanwhile, Hopwood Hall College in Middleton can proceed with crown lifting works to a protected Oak tree under TPO 050, achieving a minimum five-metre ground clearance.
Residential Extensions: A Mixed Picture for Homeowners
The council's decisions on residential projects presented a varied outcome for local homeowners. While several applications were successful, others faced refusal. Approved projects include a two-storey side extension at 7 Ruskin Road following demolition of an existing structure, and a first-floor side extension with balcony at 20 Midge Hall Drive.
However, not all homeowners received positive news. Plans for a part two, part single-storey front and side extension at 15 Falcon Close were refused by council planners. Similarly, a proposed single and double-storey extension at Little Nook Barn on Heywood Old Road in Middleton was rejected. In another refusal, works for a single-storey rear extension involving excavation and a retaining wall at 93 Charlotte Street did not gain approval.
Heritage and Environmental Considerations
Tree preservation and management featured prominently in this round of decisions. The council raised no objection to works involving seven trees and the removal of one Ash tree plus three dead trees at Milnrow Evangelical Church on New Street.
Several applications reached completion stages, with requests marked as completed for conditions relating to materials, landscaping, and invasive species management at sites including 44 Townley Street in Middleton and the former Akzo Nobel site on Hollingworth Road in Littleborough.
Community facilities also saw progress, with approval granted for the demolition of an existing portacabin and its replacement with a pre-fabricated modular community building at Heywood Cricket Club on Aspinall Street.
These planning decisions reflect the ongoing development landscape across Rochdale borough, balancing economic growth with environmental and community considerations as the area continues to evolve.
