Gateway residential scheme planned for Droylsden as council selects developer

Gateway residential scheme planned for Droylsden as council selects developer

Two Council owned vacant sites in Droylsden are to be transformed into affordable housing, following the Council’s selection of a preferred developer.

The former Droylsden Library and adjacent Lock Keepers site were declared surplus in September 2020 following the relocation of library services to Guardsman Tony Downes House and then marketed for redevelopment in July 2024.

Following a competitive bidding process, council officers are recommending a development by a joint venture between TrueNorth Partnerships and CERT Property, working with their affordable housing partner Legal & General Affordable Homes, to Cabinet as the highest scoring bid.

The bid combined both the key criteria of best price and quality design in accordance with the Council’s Development brief as well as recognising the importance of this site as a gateway location into the borough and matching the aspiration of Droylsden’s masterplan.

Construction is expected to start early in 2027 with completion anticipated by early 2029.

The proposed development includes:

• 160 new homes (152 apartments and eight houses)
• All homes designated as affordable    
• A mix of 1- and 2-bedroom apartments and 3-storey 3-bedroom houses    
• Pocket Park, a community hub, and pedestrian-friendly streets
• Sustainable features like electric vehicle charging.

The project will bring much-needed affordable homes, improve the look, and feel of Droylsden’s town centre, create welcoming public spaces, and support local jobs and businesses.

Homes within the development would be built around a smart, connected layout linking Manchester Road and the Marina, with discreet undercroft parking, green spaces, and a welcoming community hub at the heart of the site, with the hope of opening up the Manchester Road underpass at some stage in the future.

TrueNorth Partnerships and CERT Property have delivered similar projects including mixed housing, retirement schemes, and regeneration-led developments. Their focus is on affordable housing, PRS, sustainable building, and community-led design.

Councillor Hugh Roderick, Executive Member for Finance and Resources, said: “We are collaborating with developers to bring new affordable and top-quality homes to our towns, providing new community space, boosting local shops and hospitality and improving travel connections. These developers have a strong record, and this is an exciting opportunity for Droylsden.”