Huge demand for new homes in North Manchester

Local people are keen to buy planned new homes in the Moston and Harpurhey areas of North Manchester.

A series of open days staged to unveil regeneration plans for over 400 new homes have already attracted large numbers of people wanting to know when they will be available.

As a result developer Redrow has begun taking registrations from interested parties – including those already living in Moston and Harpurhey, who will be given priority when the homes are released for sale.

Speaking after the second of four events, Christine Aitken, sales director for Redrow Homes (Lancashire), said; “The open days are really about allowing local people to see what is planned for their area and to offer comment on the planning applications that have been submitted. However, the majority of visitors have wanted information on price, layout and house type design with a view to future purchase.

“They’ve also been keen to find out more about a proposed shared equity loan scheme, which will be administered by Manchester City Council and is designed to make the homes more affordable. It will allow them to put off paying 25% of the purchase price for up to 10 years, so easing the transition from renting or living with family to owning a home of their own.”

The four open days were arranged after the signing of an agreement with Manchester City Council for Redrow to develop six different sites around Cole and Albine Street, Princedom Street, Winnie Street, Bute Street, Hanson Road and Kingsley Avenue.

Representatives of Redrow were on hand to discuss their plans for two, three and four-bedroom homes in a mix of terraced, semi and detached styles, ensuring a good mix of homes for sole buyers, couples, friends sharing and families.

The proposed new homes feature traditional elevations – based on those of Redrow’s recently launched New Heritage Collection with its ‘Arts and Crafts’ era influences – and are designed to blend with existing properties in the area. They will be built to high eco-design standards, with better energy and water efficiency, and will be fully accessible and easily adaptable for occupation by a disabled person.

Redrow is also committed to providing employment and training for local people and has signed up to the ‘Manchester Employment in Construction Charter’. Where appropriate and practical, employment opportunities will be provided to local residents, including possible trainees.

City Council representatives have also attended the open days to answer questions on the delivery of the wider regeneration in the area, including proposals to upgrade Moston Lane.

The six sites to be developed by Redrow – 25 acres in total - are at the heart of Moston and Harpurhey, close to the Moston Lane and North City shopping and services centres, North Manchester Sixth Form College and several schools – all of which have been the focus of considerable investment. Manchester City Council is currently working on a masterplan for the Moston Lane area, which will guide further improvements.

Detailed planning applications for five of the six sites have already been submitted and, subject to planning consent, Redrow hopes to start work April.

The final two open days are on Saturday, March 13th from 10.30am until 4pm and Tuesday, March 16th from 10.30am - 8pm, at the Simpson Memorial Lane, in Moston Lane.

Alternatively, would-be home owners can contact Redrow to register their interest at: redrow.co.uk