MSV launches first Stalybridge flats

Housing association MSV has completed and launched the first rental phase of apartments at its Cheetham House mill conversion in Stalybridge.

Contractor Rowlinson started work in August 2017 on 38 affordable rent apartments at the Castle Street development, at the site of the former Tame Foundry textile mill close to the town centre. The scheme has been designed by Pozzoni.

Phase two is now under way, and will deliver a further 18 shared ownership and rent to buy apartments, due to complete in March 2020. The site’s former engine house will be restored and repurposed to become a central feature of the walled gardens to celebrate the historical significance of the site.

Local MP Jonathan Reynolds said: “It has been wonderful to see the transformation of the old mill site which promised a fantastic opportunity for regeneration. Cheetham House is a superb development and another exciting step forward in the journey to regenerate Stalybridge town centre.”

Charlie Norman, chief executive of MSV, said: “There is a lack of town centre apartments in Stalybridge of this standard and for an affordable rent. The scheme is part of Andy Burnham’s Greater Manchester Town Centre Challenge, and MSV is very proud of the standard and quality of this aspirational development. It hasn’t been without its challenges but we’re very happy with the result, and I personally am looking forward being here again to launch phase 2”.

The overall build cost for both phases is estimated at slightly less than £6m, with the funding including a contribution of £1.4m grant funding from Homes England.

MSV was formed 18 months ago, by the merger of Mosscare Housing Group and St Vincent’s Housing Association. The group manages more than 8,500 homes across the North West, with a mixed portfolio of social rented, shared ownership, sheltered and specialist over 60s, supported housing and products for young people.