Neil Tague
Space formerly occupied by Marks & Spencer in the town centre could be redeveloped into 32 apartments, while a former warehouse in Church Street has been put forward for conversion.
Adar Investments is promoting the plans for the ex-M&S store. Abutting the Ladysmith shopping centre, the building faces onto Ashton-under-Lyne’s market square, across from the covered market and town hall. Poundland occupies the ground floor, but the upper floors have remained empty since M&S departed in 2011.
In a scheme designed by Prestwich-based Debtal Architecture, the develop proposes a shared rooftop garden for 18 one-bedroom and 14 two-bedroom apartments.
According to Debtal’s design & access statement, “the first and second floors are very long and wide and as the footprint was designed for a retail occupier, it does not easily suit a conversion into residential apartments.”