At our latest development using innovative off-site construction solutions we have gone from base to roof ahead of schedule, this technique is ensuring minimal disruption to neighbours and reducing waste.
This is part of the major transformation in Manchester as part of a ground-breaking £3 million housing investment initiative, aimed at revitalising long-term brownfield land and addressing the city’s housing needs. Spearheaded by Manchester City Council, Project 500 is a bold new strategy that seeks to provide affordable homes while reinvigorating neglected spaces. The project marks a crucial step in addressing housing shortages and improving the quality of life for Manchester residents by making the best use of underutilised land.
One of the first projects within this initiative is led by John Southworth, who has announced plans to build seven new homes on Blackwin Street in North Manchester. These homes will contribute to the wider goal of Project 500, which initially aims to deliver 500 affordable homes across the city.
Project 500: A Vision for Affordable Housing
Project 500 represents Manchester’s commitment to tackling housing inequality and regenerating urban spaces. Through partnerships with housing providers like One Manchester, the project focuses on bringing brownfield land—once derelict or disused—back into productive use. Brownfield sites, often found in urban areas, present both a challenge and an opportunity. These areas may have once housed industrial, commercial, or residential properties, but they have been abandoned or neglected over time. Revitalising these areas not only provides much-needed housing but also helps to restore vitality to communities.
The long-term goal of Project 500 is to exceed the initial target of 500 homes, with a focus on affordability. Every home built under this initiative will be capped at the Manchester Living Rent, a rent level designed to be accessible for the widest possible range of tenants. By capping rents at the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate, the project ensures that these homes are affordable for people on housing benefit or low incomes, making housing more equitable in a rapidly growing city.
Brownfield Regeneration: Transforming Forgotten Spaces
The homes planned on Brigham and Blackwin Street are just one example of this innovative approach. The development will feature a combination of 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom homes available for social and affordable rent, ensuring a diverse mix of housing options to meet different needs. This approach aligns with Manchester’s broader ambition to create inclusive communities and provide homes for families, singles, and couples alike.
John Southworth and One Manchester: Partners in Progress
John Southworth, in collaboration with housing provider One Manchester, has been at the forefront of delivering high-quality, affordable housing in the region. Their partnership is a testament to the effectiveness of working with both public and private sectors to bring ambitious housing projects to life.
At the Brigham Street development, the team will utilise off-site construction solutions provided by Intrastack Saint-Gobain Off-Site Solutions. Off-site construction streamlines the building process, allowing for quicker completion times while maintaining high standards of quality. Intrastack has expressed excitement about continuing its successful partnership with John Southworth, with plans already underway for future developments.
This approach not only speeds up the delivery of homes but also enhances sustainability by reducing on-site waste and energy consumption. As the housing market evolves, innovative construction techniques like these will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for homes without compromising on environmental responsibility.
A Brighter Future for Manchester
John Southworth’s plans for Brigham and Blackwin Street exemplify the spirit of innovation driving Manchester forward. With Project 500 as a key pillar of this transformation, Manchester is not only addressing its current housing needs but also setting an example for cities across the UK on how to tackle housing shortages in a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable way.
The future looks bright as Manchester continues to innovate, build, and provide for its growing population, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant and inclusive place to live for years to come.
