The site of the former Denton Baths, which has remained vacant since its demolition in 2020, is slated for redevelopment into affordable housing.
- Efforts in the past to preserve Denton Baths were unsuccessful, leading to its closure and the relocation of facilities.
- The proposed plan, approved by the council, includes a 35-home apartment block offering affordable rental options.
- Initial plans were scaled down following public consultation, ensuring the development meets community needs.
- The project aims to revitalise the area with new housing, contributing to the local community’s growth.
The site of the former Denton Baths, a location left vacant since its demolition in 2020, is on the verge of a significant transformation. The area will be developed into an affordable housing complex, marking a new chapter for the community. Despite previous initiatives by local swimming groups to preserve the baths, their efforts did not succeed, resulting in the relocation of the facilities to the Tameside Wellness Centre.
A new apartment block is planned for the site after gaining approval from the planning panel on October 16. The development, a collaboration between developers Collaborate Living Ltd and Irwell Valley Homes, is set to include 35 affordable homes. These homes will be offered at rental rates up to 80 per cent of the market rate, making them more accessible to a wider demographic.
The location, adjacent to Victoria Park and in proximity to shops, schools, and health centres, is seen as an ideal setting for the new development. The three-story building will comprise 11 ground floor apartments and 12 units on the subsequent floors, featuring a mix of one- and two-bedroom flats. The plan also includes provisions for ample cycle storage and 24 parking spaces, addressing modern living needs.
Originally, a more extensive proposal involving a four-story, 46-home structure was considered. However, after careful public consultation and discussions with local Member of Parliament Andrew Gwynne, the developers opted to downsize the project to better address local concerns, as reported by the Manchester Evening News.
The planning documents emphasise the development’s role in revitalising a brownfield site. They highlight the benefits of offering diverse housing options, which is expected to foster community diversity. The documents also underline the development’s strategic location, offering excellent access to public transport and local amenities, which enhances its sustainability.
Councillors expressed strong support for the 35-home scheme, with the project described as providing high-quality housing that will significantly enhance the area’s appearance. It represents a sustainable and suitable use for the space, ensuring the needs of local residents are met while offering a welcome variety of dwelling options.
The transformation of the former Denton Baths site into affordable housing reflects a strategic and community-focused effort to utilise vacant land sustainably.
