Second phase of £3.7m homeless support scheme begins

Work has begun on the second phase of a £3.7m housing development in Eccles being built to support tenants at risk of becoming homeless.

The 15 one-bedroom apartments are being built to address the shortage of low-cost supported accommodation available to people who face becoming homeless the borough, and is the second phase of a wider project. This phase is due for completion in summer 2020.

The first phase of the scheme was launched by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett in April this year. The opening Haddon Road phase is the redevelopment of three garages into 39 homes, and is due to complete in December.

The third and final phase on Vicars Street is currently in for planning, but it is expected to start on site in November.

The homes are being built by landlord ForHousing and will be let at sub-social rent and include free utility bills and service charges. ForHousing also delivers homeless services to Cheshire West and Chester Council, and will support each tenant for two years into employment and training opportunities along with long-term accommodation.

Homes England has granted £1.43m to the overall development.

Nigel Sedman, group director of ForHousing, said: “It is fitting that we begin work on the second phase of this important development on World Homeless Day. We know that for many people, especially those at risk of homelessness, securing somewhere affordable to live is a real challenge.

“It’s really positive to see the great progress we’re making on this development, which will provide a safe place for tenants to call home and provide them with vital support to fuel their potential and plan their future. We will offer expert support to people to get back into work and secure a long-term home.”

The development was designed by JDA Architects and will be built by Bridgestone Construction. Sutcliffe provided civil and structural engineering and ground investigation works.