A planning application has been submitted for the demolition of the former probation office as part of the huge scheme to reshape Stretford town centre.

The site on Newton Street is adjacent to the major mixed-use development across the Stretford Mall and Lacy Street.

Property company Avison Young (AY) has been asked by Trafford council to submit the application to safely clear the site before its ‘future redevelopment’ which will be brought forward via a separate planning submission next year.

All existing fences, walls, trees and bushes will be protected and retained, AY says.

“The former probation office building will be demolished and the site will be levelled for future piling,” a covering letter to the Trafford planning portal says.

A survey to find out whether the building is the home of roosting bats has revealed that none were found.

The demolition will begin on April 18 2024 and is expected to be complete by May 8 2024, if the application is approved.

An ecology survey has recommended that all works should be carried out under ‘precautionary working measures’ for nesting birds and hedgehogs and there should be checks by an ecologist before any clearance work during the breeding season – March to August inclusive.

Site clearance should also be avoided during the hedgehog hibernation period of November to February inclusive.

The application appeared on the Trafford council planning portal this week and notices have been placed on telegraph poles at the site.

Documents submitted say: “The proposals for the site are not currently known, but it is understood the demolition will facilitate development.”