Character Area 3 – Shipley Riverside

Alongside the existing development pipeline in this area (Shipley Wharf Retail Park and new retirement apartments), there is the potential to provide additional sites for housing, to create a thriving multi-generational neighbourhood, and ensure that wider public spaces, footpaths/ cycleways encourage the link back to Shipley town centre.

Key interventions include:

A new residential quarter – 

• Shipley Riverside is already home to a successful residential development at Victoria Mills. The proposed redevelopment of the former HMRC site proposes similar design principles, incorporating a mix of apartment buildings and townhouses with a high quality of design and consideration of public open space. 
• Opportunities for higher density residential redevelopment are proposed within the remainder of the Character Area when sites become available. The aim is to create a residential-led neighbourhood which supports households of all kinds, including affordable homes, housing for older residents, and high-quality family housing.
• Areas to the north of the canal could deliver new housing sites, provided existing businesses could relocate or consolidate operations. There will be opportunities to reduce the dominance of car parking areas in this location through environmental improvements. 

Relocation of existing business/ commercial uses – 

• The Development Framework seeks to maintain a mix of uses within Shipley Riverside, whilst improving the efficiency of sites to allow for higher density development. 
• Where uses are compatible with residential development, e.g. office occupiers, they could be redeveloped within the Character Area. This may allow for the release of some land which is currently underutilised, while retaining the businesses to promote a mixed use character. 
• Over time, this may involve the relocation of businesses which occupy larger premises to allow sites to be redeveloped for alternative uses.  Many of these opportunities will only be possible in the longer term given the unique circumstances of each business. 

The proposed interventions as set out are indicative only. There is no funding commitment at this stage to deliver the vision. If the proposals are supported by stakeholders, a more detailed delivery plan would be considered as funding opportunities arise.