THE start of construction on the multi-million pound 'Altair' development in Altrincham has taken a step closer with the demolition of the former ATS Euromaster building.

Contractors moved onto the 4.5 acre site earlier this year to begin demolition and enabling works. 

The removal of the ATS building clears the way for phase one of the £70m Altair scheme - the 'gateway' part of the development that comprises an eight storey block built containing 59 apartments.

The leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Sean Anstee, and deputy leader, Cllr Alex Williams, called at the site to mark the progress.

They were greeted by Nick Payne, managing director of developer Nikal Group, Jeremy Hartley, managing director of Nikal's contractor, the Eric Wright Group,, and his head of pre-construction, Peter Barr.

This is the first of three phases planned by Nikal. The development will see the construction of four buildings offering 91 one, two and three bedroom apartments, leisure retail space and offices plus parking for 200 cars.

The buildings will be set within a stunning new public realm - one of the largest new public spaces to be created in Altrincham - offering residents, shoppers and workers an area to relax and socialise.

Council leader, Cllr Sean Anstee, said: “This will add a whole new dynamic to the town for all the family to enjoy and where businesses are successful. 

"The commitment to progress the plans for phase two is a boost for the thriving town which Altrincham is vastly becoming and, as one of the most desirable places in the North West to live, socialise and do business, Altrincham will be ready to meet the demand for the office, residential, recreation and retail space it requires.

“The council’s vision was to make Altrincham flourish and, through this scheme, along with the improvements being made to the public realm to improve the flow of the town, with the new restaurants and shops opening up and with the success of the market; it’s a really exciting time for Altrincham.”

The third and final phase of Altair will include plans for a new leisure centre with parking.

Nikal Managing Director Nick Payne said: “Its hugely satisfying to see the site cleared ready for construction. We’re looking forward to seeing Altair start to take shape and our proposals for phase two, and phase three reveal a stunning new quarter that heralds Altrincham’s rejuvenation and complements the heritage of the town.

“As well as being a great place to work, dine out and meet friends, Altair will provide a stylish living experience to rival the best locations in the north west.

"We’ve placed an emphasis on quality design and luxury specification whilst also offering a good range of apartments at a price point below £200,000. We ideally want local people to be the first to buy and will be formally releasing apartments for sale in early June, with those who’ve registered via the Altair website getting first option.”

Altair has been created by Nikal in a close working partnership with Trafford Council. The development has been designed by Manchester architects, Stephenson Studio. The apartments will be delivered by Nikal’s award-winning luxury homebuilding arm, Hillcrest Homes.