Albert’s has been given the go-ahead for a new venue at the former Nutters restaurant in Norden - despite a planned extension being branded ‘a carbuncle and a disgrace’. The latest addition to the chain - which also has restaurants in Manchester, Didsbury, Worsley and Standish - will involve a major transformation of historic Wolstenholme Hall.
This includes two new extensions - including a huge glass-fronted restaurant and bar, covering 6,300 sq ft - new outdoor terraces and an overflow car park to compensate for spaces lost to the development. Meanwhile, the inside of the hall is to be developed into a ‘variety of function spaces’ hosting everything from small private parties to large corporate events, wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Proposals for the green belt site were passed by Rochdale council’s planning committee when it met on Thursday night. The scheme has sharply divided opinion in the area - attracting 40 objections and 60 letters of support - and that was reflected in the opposing views aired at the meeting.
