The joint venture project, which forms part of the future development of the Stamford Quarter, support Trafford Council’s work to support regeneration in Altrincham, having invested heavily in several projects, including improving the public realm in the town.

The proposed plans, which are subject to planning permission, involve converting the former House of Fraser store into green workspace hub with new
retail and leisure facilities.

Conversion plans include adding two new floors, revamped facades, green walls and open terraces.

The transformation forms part of Bruntwood Works’ £50m Pioneer programme designed to encourage more people to come into the town centre, helping to support the long-term, sustainable growth of the local economy.

Andrea George, town centre and consumer brands director at Bruntwood Works, said: “The pandemic changed the way we interact with our high street, boosting local town centres and creating exciting opportunities to redevelop former department stores for new uses.

“We’re confident the transformation of the former Rackhams store will be a gamechanger for the town and prove an attractive proposition for those looking for workspace outside of the city centre, whilst providing a new and much-needed amenity that complements the existing operators within Stamford Square.”

Rackhams is just one of a cluster of iconic buildings in the Stamford Quarter and together Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council plan to transform the area into a mixed-use destination that makes Altrincham an even better place to live, work and play for local families and the wider community.

Subject to planning approval, works are expected to begin before the end of the year.