THE former magistrates court in Sale is set to be turned into new homes.

Council bosses have appointed developers Seddon to revamp the old Ashton Lane courthouse, which has stood empty for two years.

The council invited bids from developers to build on the one hectare site as part of its plans for regeneration and to provide more housing in the town.

Seddon, selected from a list of developers following a procurement process, are proposing a residential scheme with a mix of homes, including some affordable housing – a ‘priority’ for the council.

The site, which sits on a key route in the borough, was bought by the council from Homes England with a view to redevelop the site for housing close to the town centre.

Cllr James Wright, the council's regeneration executive member, said: "This is a flagship scheme in the centre of the town and meets the council’s policy of building more housing on brownfield sites, including affordable homes.

“Along with the delivery of new homes, the project will contribute to the regeneration of Sale town centre ensuring that the type of development delivered will provide the greatest benefit for Sale and its residents."

Planning permission still needs to be secured for the building.

Ted Macdougal, developer director for Seddon, said: “Our involvement in this key residential development presented another opportunity to work alongside Trafford council to build much-needed new homes for people in the area."