IT should be all systems go at last for the long-awaited multi-million pound Altair development in Altrincham, after planning chiefs gave detailed planning permission for phase one of the scheme.

Developer Nikal says the decision means that construction on the £70m leisure, housing and office scheme, for the 4.5 acre Oakfield Road car park area, will start this summer.

The first phase should be completed by December 2017.

Nikal managing director, Nick Payne said: “This is really wonderful news. Altair is such an exciting new addition to our thriving modern market town; a premier town centre living quarter and a real community with high quality but affordable homes."

The developer proposes to carry out the work in four phases. The first £15m phase is for the 'gateway' part of the development.

Main contractor, Eric Wright Construction, will commence site clearance works to make way for the construction of a building that will house 59 high apartments plus ground floor shops.

The apartments will be delivered by Hillcrest Homes, Nikal’s homebuilding company, and will comprise 36 one bedroom and 23 two bedroom apartments designed by Manchester architects, Stephenson Studio.

The phase one plans for Altair also include a grand new entrance for Altrincham Ice Rink and a new landscaped pedestrianised area with space for outside seating and pavement cafés.

Later this year, Nikal will submit plans for further phases of construction providing more homes alongside retail spaces suitable for restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and offices.

Altair will be linked directly to the tram, train and bus transport interchange via a new public bridge, making it easily accessible to those travelling to or from the Greater Manchester and Trafford areas.

Mr Payne added: “The offering rivals the most fashionable new areas of Manchester, such as Spinningfields and the Northern Quarter. We’re providing stylish and sophisticated apartment living with a fantastic range of desirable amenities and attractions right on the doorstep, plus an excellent choice of transport links that places the whole of the North West within easy reach.

“Even better, we’re also offering the strong community spirit and diverse delights of Altrincham town centre - now firmly established as a hub for original and innovative independent enterprise and one of the very best destinations for ‘foodies’ in the whole of Greater Manchester."

Outline planning for Altair was granted in 2014 with Nikal working in partnership with Trafford Council.

Work looks set to finally start on the frequently delayed scheme, a decade after it was first proposed.