New plan for empty Urban Splash blocks

URBAN Splash has relinquished control of three derelict tower blocks in east Manchester that it had intended to redevelop.

The three 13-storey former council blocks – Chippenham, Saltford and Rodney Court – were bought by Urban Splash in 2006 and earmarked for a similar makeover it gave three blocks close to Rochdale Road, Collyhurst, but the scheme stalled.

A joint venture between Stockport-based Rowlinson Construction and Styal-based Housing Capital Trust says it has the funding in place to take the project forward.

Housing Capital Trust is led by Nigel Rawlings, the finance director at Middlewich construction group Pochin’s and the former chief executive at Warrington healthcare centre developer Assura.

Mr Rawlings could not be reached for comment, but according to its website the trust is assembling a portfolio of residential properties specifically for letting. “As an investment vehicle, Housing Capital Trust addresses needs and opportunities created by a fundamental shift from home ownership to rental,” it said.

A statement filed with a planning application to renovate Chippenham Court said: “The aspiration for this scheme is that it will integrate well into the community and create a positive ‘ripple effect’ impact. There is a significant opportunity to create a new landmark site with the Ancoats/Miles Platting area. A new and inspirational Chippenham Court will be a welcome catalyst forwider regeneration.

“Animated elevations, with high design content and quality, the building and its site will be a clear expression of investment and confidence in this deprived area of Manchester. This housing block has been fallow since 1994 when it was closed by the local authority.

“It presently sits as a very negative social statement within the urban context. Such inactivity brings with it a complexity of cause and effect social issues. Through a joint venture between Housing Capital Trust and Rowlinson Construction funding and financing for this development has been secured.”

A spokesperson for Urban Splash said: “Urban Splash have been working with Manchester City Council for a period of time to find a successful solution for three derelict tower blocks. Following our successful regeneration of three similar tower blocks; Sylvia, Emmeline and Christabel in nearby Collyhurst, we believe that we have found a similar resolve and we are working with Rowlinsons and HCT who will take the development of these three tower blocks forward subject to a successful planning application.”