Out-Law News 2 min. read
17 Aug 2012, 4:51 pm
The Council's planning committee approved the outline masterplan for the regeneration scheme and detailed plans for the first phase of development, which includes the refurbishment of 1,253 homes, the building of 293 new homes and associated development together with the provision of new public open space and infrastructure.
The first phase of the development is scheduled to begin later this year and is expected to be completed in 2016. The refurbishment works, including work on the area's nine tower blocks, will take place shortly and will encompass new kitchens, bathrooms and windows.
Around 500 new jobs will be created along with 2,000 work experience placements and training opportunities for 3,200 people.
“The plans that were approved today bring us one step closer to realising our vision for Pendleton," Councillor Gena Merrett of Salford City Council said yesterday. "Not only will the scheme create better housing for residents, it will also bring the community together, with new public spaces, green spaces and community facilities."
“It was really important that these plans gave the community what they want and need, which is why there has been significant consultation with local people to shape the plans for the development. Now that we have approved plans the contractors will be able to get on site and start creating a new Pendleton.”
Along with work to improve homes in the area, the project also includes a "major investment" in Clarendon Park and other green spaces, new walk ways and cycle paths, a community farm, an extra care facility, a new shopping promenade and new sports pitches at the Fit City development.
“The news means we’re now a step closer to creating a new Pendleton,” said Tom Miskell, group chief executive at the Together Housing Group, the organisation leading the SP+ consortium. “We’ve worked very closely with the Council and local people to draw up our plans, and we’re certain that these are the right proposals to transform the area for generations to come.
"The plans to regenerate Pendleton began in 2003, when Salford City Council targeted the area for future investment and began consulting with residents about what changes were needed in their communities," Together Housing Group said. "The scheme has grown into one of the country’s biggest development projects, with a number of consortia bringing forward plans for how the areas should look."
After a four year bidding process the SP+ consortium, which is made up of around 10 different organisations including a housing organisation, a house builder, a bank and various development specialists, was chosen to carry out the project.
“This is one of the UK’s biggest regeneration schemes and we are proud to be bringing it forward," said Paul Hayes, director of new business at SP+. “It has been a long journey but now the real work begins to build new neighbourhoods for residents and deliver this amazing project.”
