The former site of the Greater Manchester Police headquarters could be transformed into parking spaces for fans of Manchester United and attendees of Victoria Warehouse events.
The Far East Consortium (FEC), owners of the now vacant 12-storey building that was left by the police force in 2011, have lodged a planning application to demolish the remaining part of the building, which previously served as the force's communications hub.
A separate application has been submitted to Trafford council's planning team by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). This proposal suggests converting the land where the building once stood into an 'event only' car park, albeit temporarily for a two-year period.
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However, long-term plans envision a joint venture partnership between FEC, GMCA, and Trafford Council, aiming to create a substantial residential-led, mixed-use development.
A letter from FEC's agent, Asteer Planning, characterises the land on which the former HQ was situated as an eight-acre plot with the empty building spanning 34,000sq ft.
"The buildings to be demolished are subject to 24-hour security to prevent trespassing and anti-social behaviour," it said. "However, this results in significant holding costs to the applicant."
The site is described as a 'key regeneration opportunity' within the Civic Quarter Area Action Plan (CQAAP).
The letter continues: "The building has been rendered unsafe or otherwise uninhabitable by the action or inaction of any person having an interest in the land on which the building stands."
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In the meantime, GMCA's application identifies the site as 'a major redevelopment opportunity' within the prime gateway for the CQAAP.
Their accompanying letter said: "Land associated with the now demolished Chester House separates the two car parking sites but does not fall within the planning application boundary.
"To the south-west corner of the site is the Ellis Lloyd Jones Hall Building, which is a non-designated heritage asset ("NDHA"). This building does not form part of these proposals."