News

Proposals for new homes in Mobberley will be unveiled next month as part of a £100m redevelopment of the historic ILFORD photo site.

Developer LPC Living, which is owned by the Pervaiz Naviede Family Trust, has been working with HARMAN technology, the world’s leading producer of black and white photographic products, to create a new HQ for the company on part of the 39-acre site.

In addition, the plans include the development of up to 400 new homes as well as highways improvements, a children’s play area and community allotments on the remainder of the site.

The Mobberley site, located 2km south of Manchester Airport, has been the home of Harman Technology and the ILFORD Photo brand for more than 100 years. In its heyday the business employed more than 2,000 staff, however with advances in technology reducing the size of machinery required combined with rising energy and maintenance costs, the company’s requirement for the site’s large industrial units has declined. LPC’s proposals would enable HARMAN to restructure its facility to suit its modern operation while allowing for future expansion.

Ahead of submitting a Planning Application to Cheshire East Council, a two-day public exhibition is being held to display the plans and gauge the views of local residents.

Simon Ashdown, director at LPC Living said: “This is a complex site due its industrial nature and it has taken some time to develop plans we consider to be appropriate for the location, HARMAN technology and the local community. If the plans are successful it would represent a £100 million investment in the site and will enhance the future of this iconic company.

“We are keen to hear people’s thoughts on the proposals and would encourage residents to take part in our consultation.”

Peter Elton, Managing Director at HARMAN technology added: “The Town Lane site has been our home for over a century and has real significance to the business and to the people of Mobberley. However, the site currently does not meet our needs and makes it difficult for us to remain competitive in our industry. We have been working with LPC Living on these plans for the last three years which would enhance the future of the business and preserve our heritage.’

The public exhibition will take place on Friday 12 July from 1pm – 7pm and Saturday 13 July from 11am – 3pm at The Rajar Building, Town Lane, Mobberley, WA16 7ER.  A community information phone line is also available during office hours 0161 711 0293.