A PRESTWICH firm is offering the perfect "window" of opportunity for potential developers.

Prestwich Glass and Glazing Ltd is looking to relocate to bigger premises and their current base in Chester Street will go up for sale.

The site has been earmarked as the next exciting property development and could be converted into plush apartments.

According to residential property experts Knight Frank of Manchester, Prestwich is being hailed as "the new Didsbury" and demand for property in the town is soaring due to new wine bars, coffee houses and shops.

Julie Moorhouse, of Knight Frank, who has been instructed to sell the building, said: "This site is very close to the multi-million pound Countryside Properties 'Radius' scheme, which has enjoyed phenomenal success. People are talking about Prestwich as the new Didsbury and it's easy to see why. It's a short trip into the city centre, is well placed for motorway links and has a well-established residential area. Schemes like Radius will revitalise the area and encourage other developers to move in. Land will be at a premium as a result."

Prestwich Glass and Glazing has occupied the site since 1985 and before that a clothing manufacturer operated from the building.

Originally, the building was used as a church hall, believed to be Methodist, and some of its character could be retained in the development.

If planning permission is given the site could be converted into nine apartments, including a mixture of renovation and new build.

Although an application has not been formally submitted, Ms Moorhouse added: "Discussions with the local authority have been positive and we believe the site could be converted into an attractive apartment scheme with off-road parking. The planners are keen to see at least part of the original building retained, but there is some potential for new build also."

Offers are being invited for the 6,477sq ft Chester Street site. The deadline for submissions is noon on September 10.