Councillors in Wirral have given unanimous approval for a new development of 116 homes in Bromborough, which will be constructed on a site that has been unused since 2009. This initiative aligns with the government’s focus on utilising brownfield sites for housing.
The development will offer a variety of properties, including one-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom semi-detached and detached houses. These homes will feature modern amenities such as EV chargers, solar panels, and air-source heat pumps, ensuring they surpass current building regulations. Fourteen homes are allocated for social and affordable rent, while an additional nine properties will be sold under the First Homes scheme at a discount of at least 30%. The project will also achieve a biodiversity net gain of more than 10% through on-site enhancements and habitat improvements. Residents will benefit from over 2.5 acres of public open space, a children’s play area, and pedestrian and cycle path connections to Port Sunlight River Park. Around £350,000 will be invested into the local community for enhancements to Mayfield Playing Fields. Chris Kershaw, Development Director, stated that the development will aid in fulfilling local housing needs and rejuvenate the long-vacant site, while also providing significant investment for the community.
A national building surveying and project management firm, PMP, has relocated to a larger office in Manchester, anticipating a recruitment drive. The firm’s new location in The Pinnacle building on King Street offers a prime city centre space. This move, aimed at accommodating the expanding team, will enable the company to recruit additional staff, including an Associate Director in Building Surveying. The expansion comes after strong growth, highlighted by successful projects such as the re-cladding of Milliners Wharf in Ancoats and resolving numerous dilapidations in Manchester and the North West. Executive Director Ben Walker described the move as a natural progression, offering more central facilities suitable for current and future business needs.
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool has appointed Buttress to enhance and safeguard the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King in Liverpool. The initial phase involves a Quinquennial Inspection, the first ever performed on the cathedral, to understand the building’s condition and issues. This will inform future conservation and maintenance strategies. Buttress will also create a strategic masterplan to enhance the visitor experience, better utilise space, improve the cathedral’s carbon footprint, and ensure financial sustainability. Edward Kepczyk and Matthew Burl from Buttress emphasised their commitment to preserving the cathedral’s significance and envisioning its future collaboratively.
In Stretford, a new waterside apartment development named Edgewater is nearing completion. Developed by Gecko Homes, the project has garnered interest from over 1,000 potential buyers for just 40 homes, to be sold on a shared ownership basis. Buyers can purchase as little as 10% of the property, with the option to buy more shares later. Head of Sales, Christina Tattersall, expressed enthusiasm about the strong demand for quality homes in well-connected locations with excellent amenities and transport links to Manchester city centre.
Baily Garner has opened a new office in Manchester, expanding its multidisciplinary construction consultancy services. The office, located at 15 Oxford Court, will offer architecture, building surveying, quantity surveying, project management, building services, sustainability advice, and CDM. Headed by Tom Cadman, the expansion aims to extend high-quality services and innovative solutions to a broader audience in Manchester. Andy Tookey, Managing Partner, highlighted this move as a significant step in the firm’s growth strategy, reinforcing their commitment to impacting people’s lives positively and supporting local communities.
Livv Housing Group has handed over the first set of keys at its new apartments in Prescot. Clockwork Court, part of the phase two development at The Watchfactory, provides affordable one- and two-bedroom apartments for those aged 55 and over, enabling residents to live independently while accessing existing care services. The building features watch-themed motifs, paying tribute to its historical location. Yvonne Westhead-Fyles noted the excitement of providing new affordable homes designed for extra care, ensuring support for residents in living fulfilling lives. The first resident, Brian, expressed his delight with his new apartment, noting how the facilities have significantly improved his quality of life.
Providence Hotels has acquired the lease of Mary Mount Hotel in the Lake District, marking a notable step in the company’s expansion strategy. The hotel, located on the shores of Derwentwater, offers panoramic views and has a rich history. Business Development Director, Sybrand Engelbrecht, stated that this acquisition reflects their commitment to sustainable growth and aligns with their strategic vision to expand into key UK locations. The company aims to enhance the hotel’s offerings while preserving its charm and character.
These developments and expansions across the North West reflect a commitment to utilising unused sites, enhancing existing structures, and providing quality housing and services. This proactive approach is set to bring significant benefits to local communities, fulfilling housing needs and preserving historical landmarks.