A decision on revised plans to build 57 homes near the centre of Ramsbottom is expected next week. The plans, which include creating a 47-space public car park for visitors to the town, have been submitted by Eccleston Homes, which wish to build the new estate at the former Holcombe Mill, also known as the Mondi paper mill site, on Bridge Street. The scheme has been recommended for approval by Bury Council officers ahead of a planning committee meeting on Tuesday, July 9.
The scale of the housing development has previously been described Ramsbottom Heritage Society as the largest single housing development in the town centre for "getting on for 200 years". A similar application for 73 homes at the site was rejected by Bury’s planning committee in May 2022 citing concerns about potential flooding and effects on the roads. An appeal was lodged on behalf of Eccleston Homes but was dismissed by a planning inspector who found that insufficient evidence was provided to assess flood risks at the site.
Commenting on the proposals, Ramsbottom Civic Pride, which are responsible for maintaining the gardens and green spaces in the town, say Eccleston "have made compromises that are perfectly acceptable" and that "the site now needs developing, providing new homes". The revised application includes plans for two, two-bed semi-detached homes, 31 three-bed houses and 24 four-bed detached homes along with a 47-space public car park and open space. A layout of the plans The application said.
