A former industrial site in Oldham might soon see a transformation into a vibrant eco village. This proposal promises a community-centric design.
Submitted by Eco Village Industries, the project looks to construct 32 homes with sustainable features, offering a fresh start for the area.
Revitalising Oldham: A Green Ambition
Plans have been submitted to transform a derelict industrial site in Oldham into an eco village with 32 homes. This development aims to breathe new life into the area by converting warehouses that currently stand abandoned. The vision is to create a community-focused environment that integrates sustainable housing solutions, offering both social and environmental benefits.
Development Plan Details
Located at Pretoria Lane, the project by Eco Village Industries Ltd features a combination of houses and apartment blocks centered around communal gardens and a community cafe. This setup is designed to foster interaction among residents, promoting a sense of neighbourliness.
The complex would comprise three low-rise buildings around a shared green space with a pond. This central area aims to encourage community activities and gatherings, reinforcing the communal spirit. Private gardens will be available for residents, some facing the shared zones.
Innovative Design Features
The plan proposes a variety of housing options, including seven flats, four maisonettes, and a HMO in a four-storey building on Pretoria Road.
A staggered building ranging from two to three floors is also planned on Collier Hill Avenue. This structure will house three maisonettes and three flats, showcasing a mix of private and shared spaces.
Additionally, the ‘Wild Garden Building’ is designed to offer 12 flats across four floors. Each unit will have access to a garden or balcony, ensuring personal outdoor space for all residents.
Sustainability at the Core
The development will incorporate sustainable technologies such as lush green roofs, solar panels, and heat pumps. These features are aimed at reducing the environmental impact and providing renewable energy sources for the homes.
Car parking facilities, including 18 spaces with EV charging points, are strategically placed at the outskirts of the complex to minimise vehicular traffic in residential areas. This approach supports a pedestrian-friendly environment, fostering safety and community interaction.
Community Engagement and Concerns
Public consultations revealed resident concerns about increased traffic, particularly on Pretoria Road during peak school times. These insights have guided the inclusion of a new community space to replace the existing hall, addressing local needs.
Developers are committed to addressing these concerns by designing traffic-calming measures and improving infrastructure to accommodate the new development. This proactive approach aims to enhance both safety and convenience for all residents.
Decision Pending
The application is pending approval and aims to be resolved by December 27. This timeline reflects the developers’ readiness to move forward with construction once the necessary permissions are granted.
No objections have been officially recorded, indicating a level of community support or neutrality at this stage. However, ongoing dialogue with residents will be crucial to ensure harmonious development progress.
Potential Impacts and Future Outlook
The eco village promises to transform a neglected site into a vibrant community hub, potentially setting a precedent for similar projects in the region. Its success could inspire further sustainable developments, contributing positively to the local economy and environment.
The planned eco village in Oldham signifies a step towards sustainable urban living.
It highlights an opportunity to revitalise the community while addressing environmental concerns.
