Huge Greater Manchester housing development doubles number of affordable homes

A developer has pledged to build more than double the number of affordable homes at a huge project in Oldham. More than 190 homes are due to be built on the site of the former Shaw Distribution Centre, with 111 due to be available for shared ownership, affordable rent or sold at a discounted price.

The 192 two-storey family homes are the second part of an ongoing transformation of the industrial site off Beal Lane, formerly home to the Very Group. A planning application promises a ‘distinct and memorable’ new neighbourhood with good connections to Shaw and the wider region through the nearby M62.

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The two, three and four-bedroom homes, some of which have garages, would be surrounded by newly created streets will be ‘spacious’ and tree-lined to promote healthy living, according to developers.

A planning application originally submitted by developers Bellway last year originally proposed to make 20 percent of the homes available for shared ownership or lower rent. But after teaming up with Great Places Housing Group, the percentage has risen to 57.

In total, 47 of the houses will be for shared ownership, 25 for affordable rent, and 38 at discounted market value. The remaining 92 will be sold by Bellway on the open market.

A planning statement read: “The development will maintain a well-informed, safe, and attractive neighbourhood, which promotes the wellbeing of its residents and visitors.”