Member Article

LPC Living to develop Mobberley ILFORD photo site

Developer LPC Living has unveiled a £100m investment into a Cheshire-based housing project, which will see a new headquarters built for current occupiers at the iconic ILFORD photo site.

The 130-year old company will move to another part of the 39-acre site in Mobberley, where up to 400 new homes will be built along with highways improvements, a children’s playground and allotments for the community.

LPC Living, which is owned by the Pervaiz Naviede Family Trust, has been working on the project with HARMAN technology, which makes products for black and white photography.

Based 2km from Manchester Airport, the Mobberley site has been home to HARMAN and ILFORD for over 100 years, while at its most successful point the business employed over 2,000 people.

Advances in technology have since pushed the firm into decline at their industrial units, however the redevelopment from LPC Living hopes to allow HARMAN to restructure and allow for future expansions.

Simon Ashdown, director at LPC Living, said: “This is a complex site due its industrial nature and it has taken some time to develop plans we consider to be appropriate for the location, HARMAN technology and the local community.

“If the plans are successful it would represent a £100 million investment in the site and will enhance the future of this iconic company. We are keen to hear people’s thoughts on the proposals and would encourage residents to take part in our consultation.”

Plans are yet to be submitted to Cheshire East Council, and will be on display for two days on the 12th and 13th July at The Rajar Building in Mobberley ahead of submission for the public to give their opinions on the project.

Managing director of HARMAN technology, Peter Elton, commented: “The Town Lane site has been our home for over a century and has real significance to the business and to the people of Mobberley.

“However, the site currently does not meet our needs and makes it difficult for us to remain competitive in our industry. We have been working with LPC Living on these plans for the last three years which would enhance the future of the business and preserve our heritage.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .