MP opens new affordable housing development in Tameside

The Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP for Ashton-under-Lyne has officially opened a new £5.4 million affordable housing development in the heart of Ashton town centre, delivering 35 much-needed new homes for local people.

Located on Stamford Street Central, the scheme has transformed a long-vacant brownfield site, formerly the Blues nightclub and car park, into high-quality, energy-efficient affordable housing.

The development provides 33 one-bedroom apartments and 2 two-bedroom apartments for social rent, helping to meet growing demand for smaller, affordable homes in Tameside.

Some residents have downsized from larger family homes, freeing up housing for families in need, while others have moved from temporary accommodation into a permanent home where they can live independently.

The scheme was officially opened by Angela Rayner MP alongside Brian Moran, Chief Executive of Jigsaw Homes Group; Donna Kelly, Group Director of Jigsaw Support and Neighbourhoods; Emma Alexander, Chief Executive of Tameside Council; Deputy Leader of TMBC Cllr Andrew McLaren and Adrian Rooney, Managing Director of J Greenwood (Builders) Limited.

The development received funding support from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Brownfield Fund and Homes England.

Designed with sustainability at its heart, Stamford Street Central achieves EPC A ratings throughout and incorporates a range of energy-efficient measures, including rooftop solar photovoltaic panels and a highly insulated building fabric. These features will help residents reduce energy consumption and lower their household bills.

Angela Rayner MP said: “As the local MP, I'm incredibly proud to officially open Stamford Street Central and see first-hand the difference developments like this make to people's lives.

"People often tell me that getting the keys to a home of their own feels like winning the lottery, and everyone deserves the security, warmth and stability that a safe, affordable home provides. With thousands of people waiting for housing, it is vital that we continue building more homes like these.

"Jigsaw Homes has a proud history of investing in Tameside, and it’s inspiring to see the positive impact these new homes will have on residents - so thanks to all those involved."

Brian Moran, Chief Executive of Jigsaw Homes Group, said: "Stamford Street Central demonstrates our commitment to providing more affordable, high-quality homes for people who need them most. Across the development we have residents who have been able to downsize from larger family properties, helping to free up homes for growing families, while others have moved on from temporary accommodation and are now living independently in a home of their own."

"By bringing a long-derelict brownfield site back into use, we have created sustainable, energy-efficient homes in a fantastic town-centre location. Developments like this play an important role in tackling housing need across Tameside and ensuring more people have access to safe, secure and affordable housing."

Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Growth, Housing and Homelessness Councillor Andrew McLaren, said: “This development has transformed this brownfield site into high-quality, social rent homes for residents.

“The scheme aligns with our ambitions for the proposed Ashton and Stalybridge Mayoral Development Corporation encouraging investment and accelerating regeneration that benefits our residents.

 “At the heart of everything we do with our partners is our commitment to making Tameside a great place for all. The regeneration of brownfield land is a key priority within Tameside’s Local Plan, helping us unlock the affordable homes our communities need. By bringing these sites back into use, we can provide high-quality homes that meet the needs of residents and their families, both now and in the future.”

Adrian Rooney, MD of J Greenwoods said: “We are passionate about delivering developments that leave a positive legacy, and these new homes will provide safe, secure and affordable accommodation for local families and individuals. We are delighted to have worked alongside Jigsaw Homes, the designers and supply chain to bring this scheme from concept through planning, design, construction and successful handover.”