Plans have been approved to develop a residential masterplan in Trafford, Greater Manchester, to deliver 147 homes –of which 50% will be affordable–, improved landscape areas and walkable routes in and across the site, linking to Merlin’s park.

The project is being developed by Homes for Trafford, a JV between Trafford Council and L&Q, with masterplanning, landscape design and architecture by Levitt Bernstein.

The redevelopment of the 2.8-hectare brownfield site will create a cohesive residential neighbourhood. The master plan prioritises wellbeing and placemaking, providing a high-quality public realm for a family and child-friendly community. Residents will benefit from a clear hierarchy of public spaces, intuitive wayfinding, and generous landscaping.

The design reintroduces a traditional network of streets to create a familiar, walkable neighbourhood that responds sensitively to its context. The new homes are of a similar scale to the surrounding residential streets and incorporate a range of materials and detailing in line with to the local character, reinforcing the area’s urban principles.

The new neighbourhood features a variety of homes, including one-bedroom apartments and two-, three-, and four-bedroom houses. With 50% homes designated as affordable housing, the varied typologies support a truly mixed and welcoming community. The design creates a legible and clear street hierarchy with active frontages overlooking external, social spaces, including safe children's play areas, extensive cycle parking facilities, and strong connections to both local amenities and the wider city.

Sustainability and biodiversity are central to the landscape strategy. A bold planting palette enhances external spaces, with focal trees serving as natural wayfinding markers. Selected species provide year-round visual interest, while ground-level planting and sustainable drainage systems contribute to a biodiverse landscape.

David Magill Associate at Levitt Bernstein, said: “We are delighted that the new neighbourhood at Bold Street has received planning approval. At its heart, the master plan seeks to foster a neighbourly, community feel that encourages wellbeing and healthy lifestyles through quality homes, safe opportunities for children’s outdoor play and inviting landscaping. We have been delighted to work with Trafford Council and L&Q who have held these values as core principles throughout the design.”

Cllr Liz Patel, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:

“Trafford Council is committed to building more new and affordable homes across the borough to help address a huge shortage issue and I am delighted that the committee has approved this scheme.

“This is a fabulous development and includes 50 per cent affordable properties, a much-needed boost to assist us with the housing crisis in Trafford. We are going to build a new neighbourhood containing 147 new energy-efficient homes in the heart of Old Trafford and that can only be good news. The Council prides itself on working with partners to create new, affordable homes within communities across our borough.”

Ben Townsend, New Business Director NW for L&Q, said:

“We are delighted our ambitious plans for Bold Street received the green light and we are eager to put our spades in the ground and take this exciting scheme forward alongside our partner Trafford Council.

At L&Q, we are committed to playing our part to tackle the housing crisis and we believe this will create a landmark regeneration scheme in Old Trafford, with beautiful, energy-efficient homes. It will also help support the local economy, creating jobs and opportunities for businesses in the area.”

The project team includes:

Levitt Bernstein (Architecture, Masterplanning and Landscape Design)
Euan Kellie Property Solutions (Planning Consultant)
Civic Engineers (Engineering and Transport Consultant)
Wilkinson Cowan Partnership (Cost Consultant)
Lucion (Environmental Consultant)

Levitt Bernstein Secures Planning for 147-home development for L&Q and Trafford Council