A former lap dancing club in the centre of Altrincham could be converted into a complex of seven apartments, if plans submitted to planners are approved.

The ‘Totties’ club has been the source of numerous complaints, highlighted by the applicant’s submission to Trafford council saying: “Between 1968 and 2021, the use of the upper floor of the application site as a night club has been an on-going source of public concern and proposals to redevelop the site in manner that ceases that use, could be a significant benefit to public amenity.”

In 2017, two men were jailed after the death of a young dad in a violent incident outside the club, and in 2021 its licence was renewed despite claims over ‘fighting, shouting and public urination’.

Applicant Charlotte Street Estates Ltd is the owner of the site. It is seeking ‘permission in principle’ to change the use of part of the ground and first floors from the lap dancing club and retail unit for three of the apartments.

An additional storey would be added for another four self-contained apartments on the second floor, including a pitched roof, with duplex apartment bedrooms in the new attic space.

The design and access statement submitted on behalf of Charlotte Street Estates by County Planning Limited says: “Viewed from George Street, the [existing] building is out of keeping, being utilitarian and almost brutalist in appearance.

“It contrasts abruptly with the traditional buildings in the locality. It should be common ground between the applicant and the local planning authority that the redevelopment of the site represents an opportunity for enhancement of the George Street Conservation Area.

“The wider area is undergoing a resurgence of investment and renewal of old building stock. 

“Several streets nearby are ear-marked for urban renewal, including local plan designations. 

“Recently approved permissions in the locality, which include erection of a part-three / part-four storey development at 74-84 George Street (opposite) have demonstrated that residential-led developments within the Conservation Area and in close proximity to the application site, is acceptable in principle.”