A HISTORIC shopping arcade in Ashton-under-Lyne is under new ownership – the ‘people of Tameside.’
And ideas are being sought from the community about what should go on at or into Clarence Arcade, on Stamford Street.
Joseph Robertson, of Manchester-based JJRH Commercial, was granted planning permission to convert part of the Victorian structure into three houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) for a total of 16 people after successfully appealing Tameside Council’s refusal.
Prior approval was also given in August to convert the same area into nine apartments ahead of a full planning application being submitted.
But Monopoly Properties, owned by Andy Kleek, has bought the arcade and believes it should stay as it is.
In a statement, they said: “We are very passionate about saving our heritage assets in Tameside.
“One we had a particular eye on – and one which we have worked hard to save – is Clarence Arcade.
“Planning had gone in and been accepted for this stunning building to be turned into a 16 bed HMO, originally rejected but unfortunately later overturned at appeal.
“We strongly believe a landmark asset like this should be exempt from such developments.
“We were worried about the impact on the town if this went ahead and the loss of one of our most imposing and historical buildings in the heart of Ashton.
“We are therefore delighted to announce that Monopoly Properties have acquired this building and it is now back in the hands of the people of Tameside.
“As we often say, a great deal of work goes on behind the scenes that isn’t immediately visible, and this was one of those projects we have been quietly pursuing.
“We are thrilled that it has now come to fruition and it is back in safe hands.”
Now the ownership is sorted, thoughts have now turned to what would go in Clarence Arcade?
Built in 1894 as a shopping venue, it has been used for a variety of purposes in recent years.
And Monopoly Properties is open to suggestions from the community.
It added: “So what for the future of Clarence Arcade?
“We have some great ideas, but we are open to input from the local community and would love you all to get involved.
“You may even want to take the building on yourself, in which case we are happy to talk to serious interested parties.”
Mr Robertson’s original HMO plan was rejected by Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning) committee.
But an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate was successful, with inspector Steven Hartley saying: “I have no evidence before me to indicate that the sort of behaviour envisaged would likely occur on a regular basis.
“There are no grounds for resisting the proposed development on land use principle grounds or because of any harm that may be caused to the housing mix and the effect upon the character of the area.”