Market access changes at Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre, Oldham

“Proposal: Variation of Condition 2 (approved plans) for installation of new staircase and raised platform, sliding door entrance, and relocation of street furniture to Parliament Square frontage relating to app no. FUL/348415/22.”

“This amendment comprises the installation of a 6.2m wide staircase with handrails and balustrades and an extended raised platform connecting with the existing platform entrance to the market area at the northern end of the frontage.”

“The application relates to the south-eastern corner of the recently redeveloped Spindles where it fronts onto Parliament Square. This area of the building will comprise the food & beverage market with access to the events space above.”

“NMA/352622/24 – Non-material amendment to Condition 2 (Approved Details Schedule) – goods lift amendment relating to app no FUL/348415/22. Approved 27 September 2024”

“FUL/348415/22 - Comprehensive redevelopment of the Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre comprising the rationalisation of the existing Upper Mall floorspace to create new flexible high quality office use including co-working space (Use Class E), Change of use of part of the existing Upper Mall and car park to create a new archive space (Sui generis) and construction of a new market hall (Use Class E) and event space (Sui generis) including rooftop terrace, together with…”

“The Heritage Statement submitted with the original application concluded that the development would cause ‘less than substantial’ harm to off-site heritage assets, including the Town Centre Conservation Area.”

“In this case, the impact must be weighed in the context of the significant regeneration benefits to the town centre from the regeneration of the Spindles, and therefore, approval would accord with the statutory duties and national and local planning policies.”

“The application has been publicised by means of press notice and site notice.”

“In response, no representations have been received.”

“NPPF Paragraph 212 states that in considering the impact of a proposed development, great weight should be given to the asset’s conservation (and the more important the asset, the greater the weight should be). This is irrespective of whether any potential harm amounts to substantial harm, total loss or less than substantial harm to its significance.”

“On being put to the vote, it was UNANIMOUSLY cast IN FAVOUR OF APPROVAL.”

“DECISION: That the application be GRANTED subject to the conditions as outlined in the report.”