Former council office block set to be transformed into flats

CGI of how the new Platinum House building on Sadler Street, Middleton could look upon completion

A former council office block in Middleton is set to be transformed into new apartments.

Platinum House on Sadler Street was formerly used by the local authority but now operates as a retail warehouse. Plans have now been tabled to change it into a block of 15 apartments.

In order to do this the applicant, Mr Ali Saroya, wants to add another floor to the three-storey building. The plan would see 10 one-bedroom flats, three two-bedroom flats, and two three-bedroom flats built.

Two of the homes would be available for affordable rent (up to 80 per cent of market value) and the other 13 will be let out by the landlord.

The proposal does not include any off-street parking for the site, which sits in the Middleton Conservation Area. The lack of parking has been the main concern for the 18 objectors, who believe more cars in and around the streets could cause increased traffic congestion.

The council’s highways officers admitted having only on-street parking is a concern. The highways team suggested the introduction of a residents parking scheme would make this a viable proposal.

Council officers have recommended the plan be approved by the planning committee. The committee will meet at Number One Riverside in Rochdale on 27 November to make a decision.

The panel of councillors will also have to decide whether or not to approve a retrospective plan for a house extension on Newhouse Road in Heywood. The plan has been recommended for refusal due to its design.

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter