WHEN one imagines a ‘secret garden’, a secluded haven in the country springs to mind – but how about at the heart of Altrincham?

Altrincham-based Novo Property Group is proposing to transform the four storey office building at 28 The Downs into an apartment and retail scheme.

The redevelopment centres around ‘The Secret Garden’, a unique £400,000 luxury ‘back of mews style’ three bed, with private gated entrance and one-of-a-kind secret garden tucked away from the bustling street.

It would also include three one-bed apartments, mainly aimed at buy to let investors, and the commercial unit on the ground floor would be home to Novo’s new office.

Director of Novo Property Group, Ben Fearns, said: “The Secret Garden Apartment at The Downs, is designed to take advantage of the unique opportunity to supply a widening demographic that is looking to move into the centre of Altrincham.

“It will greatly enhance what is a traditional and very beautiful, ‘Osborne Place’, creating a unique home, secure and tranquil, while still enjoying every amenities of town on its doorstep.”

The plans form part of a wider regeneration program for the developers, focusing heavily on the Altrincham area.

“In 2016 and 2017 we are introducing upwards of 50 stunning apartments into the area, designed to enhance their surroundings, carved out of tired and empty spaces,” said Ben.

“There is nothing else like The Secret Garden Apartment available at the moment, so we can’t wait to see who it attracts. It would suit an ‘active’ down sizer, with a demanding spec, who wants a central location, across one level, which is secure to lock up and leave.

“However, the diversity of Altrincham buyers is apparent across all of Novo’s developments and constantly keeps us on our toes – meaning that we constantly seek out innovative design solutions to best enhance interesting spaces.”

With Altrincham-based developers Thompson Visinoni currently working on a huge regeneration project just doors down from the proposed conversion, the future of The Downs is certainly looking up.

“In two years’ time, The Downs will be thriving,” said Ben.

“This is visible by the commercial and residential investment currently underway. Although adjoining Stamford New Road, I think it has a distinctly different feel and will develop its own community and resident to match.”

The planning application has been submitted to Trafford Council and, should plans get approved, developers hope to complete in late 2017.